Serie A has rejected a last-minute rescue measure from the Italian football federation to avert a players strike, making it likely that tomorrow’s planned start of the season will be delayed.

Federation president Giancarlo Abete offered yesterday to supply €20 million ($29 million) to cover extra costs for a new solidarity tax that applies to high-wage earners.

But Serie A president Maurizio Beretta said the clubs’ stance remains unchanged and that they still want two changes to the collective contract proposed by the players, including a clause stating that the players will pay the solidarity tax.

The clubs also want a clause inserted that will allow coaches to force unwanted players to train away from the first team.