He is accused of having frequent contact with Islamic extremists on social networks, with whom he shared jihadist material, the newspaper said.

A deportation order was issued by Interior Minister Angelino Alfano.

His arrest came as part of a crackdown in Italy on would-be jihadists.

He is said to have been part of a network that included a 23-year-old Kosovan, who was deported in January after allegedly planning to join the extremist group, Isis, and celebrating the Charlie Hebdo attacks in Paris.

Alfano said in January that nine foreigners had been deported since December as part of efforts to prevent jihadist attacks and that more expulsions would follow.

Security in Italy has been at its highest level since the Paris attacks.

"Ours in a job which must necessarily be carried out in the shadows, but believe me it is carried out without stop, against terrorism, to defend our democracy and freedom," Alfano said.

Italy's cabinet in February approved a slew of anti-terrorism measures, including jail terms of up to six years for "foreign fighters" as well as those who recruit would-be jihadists.

The measures also included confiscating the passports of suspected militants and giving more powers to Italy’s intelligence services.