Two bookings combined together are eligible for a 72hours free visa?

Hello!
I have a booking for a flight scheduled on the 15th of May from Shanghai to Milan (Italian passport holder). I will be travelling outside during April and May, and going back to Shanghai to take my return flight. I am planning to buy a single ticket to Shanghai from one of my future destinations. If I book a flight which arrives within 72 hours before my next flight leaves (landing after the 12th and leaving on the 15th, last check in 23.05), am I elegible for the free stay, eventhough I would have two separte bookings? My return flight Shanghai-Milan belongs also to a round trip booking Milan-Shanghai/Shanghai-Milan. Would the 72 hours transit still be possible for me in Shanghai?
Thanks in advance for your help!
Sofia