A blockbuster transfer? Riccardo Calafiori could join a top Spanish club!
Real Madrid and head coach José Mourinho are showing serious interest in Arsenal defender Riccardo Calafiori, seeing him as the ideal candidate to strengthen both the left flank and the center of defense.
Details: According to TEAMtalk, the 24-year-old Italian has become the Spanish giants’ top priority among defenders worldwide, despite the summer reinforcements to their back line in the form of players such as Marc Cucurella and Denzel Dumfries.
Mourinho highly values Calafiori’s versatility, as he can operate equally effectively both at left-back and in central defense, giving the coaching staff the flexibility they need. Representatives of the Madrid club have already made inquiries about the player’s current situation, while the transfer is being viewed by the club’s hierarchy as a “dream,” although Manchester City’s Joško Gvardiol is also on the Madrid side’s shortlist.
Arsenal is taking an extremely firm stance and considers the Italian footballer untouchable. Since Calafiori’s contract with the Gunners runs until 2029, the club is under no pressure and plans to discuss improved terms with the player in 2027.
In the 2026/27 season, Calafiori has made 11 appearances for Arsenal in all competitions, scoring two goals and providing two assists. Transfermarkt values the player at €65 million.
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Álvaro Hernández
Dailysports's expert
