Incoming Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho has reportedly told the club to make an attempt to sign Arsenal defender Riccardo Calafiori this summer.
The 24-year-old Italy international joined the Gunners from Bologna in the summer of 2024.
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Since arriving at Arsenal, Calafiori has established himself as a key player despite struggling with multiple injury issues.
His progress in the Premier League has undoubtedly attracted interest from elsewhere.
Now, a fresh update has emerged regarding his future.
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Real Madrid in touch with Calafiori’s representatives
Spanish journalist Ramon Alvarez de Mon reports that Real Madrid are set to explore a summer deal for Calafiori.
The move is said to be driven by a request from legendary manager Jose Mourinho, who is expected to become Real Madrid’s new head coach this summer.
The news has also been backed up by transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, who claims that Los Blancos have made direct contact with Calafiori’s representatives to discuss a potential move.
However, Arsenal are understood to view the defender as a key part of their long-term project, making any deal complicated.
Previous reports have stated that Arsenal value Calafiori at around €50m.
His current contract at the Emirates runs until the summer of 2029.
What happens next?
Arsenal are set to step up their plans as the summer transfer window approaches, with the club continuing to hold internal discussions over potential targets. Mikel Arteta and Andrea Berta are both believed to be actively assessing several options as preparations for next season continue behind the scenes.
The Gunners are expected to be among the busiest Premier League clubs this summer, with several positions under review. Any move will ultimately depend on availability, financial conditions and how Arsenal prioritise their targets during the transfer window.
The bigger picture
Arsenal’s recruitment team continues to focus on players who fit the club’s long-term strategy under Mikel Arteta. Technical quality, tactical intelligence and versatility remain key attributes as the club assesses potential additions ahead of the new campaign.
The club has consistently looked to add players capable of improving both the starting XI and overall squad depth, particularly with the demands of competing in the Premier League and Champions League. Arsenal are expected to strengthen multiple areas of the squad this summer and continue to monitor opportunities across Europe and South America.
Arsenal are expected to make several important decisions regarding the composition of the squad this summer. While strengthening key areas remains a priority, the club could also consider offers for certain players if it helps fund new arrivals and maintain financial flexibility.
Securing the futures of key players remains just as important as making new signings. Arsenal have worked hard to build one of the strongest squads in Europe, and maintaining stability within the group will be crucial as the club looks to continue competing for major honours.
Our View
Calafiori’s situation is one worth monitoring closely. While the Italian defender remains an important player for Arsenal, the reality is that every squad evolves over time and difficult decisions sometimes have to be made.
Should a significant offer arrive, Arsenal may at least be forced to consider their options, particularly if it could help fund reinforcements elsewhere in the squad. Mikel Arteta has multiple options at left-back, so it remains to be seen whether a serious offer from Real Madrid could tempt the Gunners into selling Calafiori.
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