Arsenal have turned down an approach from AC Milan for Riccardo Calafiori, insisting the defender is not for sale this summer.
The 23-year-old joined the Gunners from Bologna last year and, despite some injury setbacks, has established himself as a key figure in Mikel Arteta’s defensive rotation.
He made 29 appearances across competitions in his debut season, contributing three goals and two assists while proving his value both at left-back and in central defence.
Calafiori’s versatility and composure on the ball have made him a standout in Arteta’s squad, and Arsenal are unwilling to entertain offers for the Italy international.
According to The Mirror, Milan made an enquiry with a view to luring Calafiori back to Serie A, but Arsenal quickly dismissed the proposal.
The player himself is believed to be happy in North London and is not seeking a move away just 12 months after his arrival.
Milan’s interest in Calafiori came amid increasing expectation that Theo Hernandez will depart this summer, leaving the Rossoneri in search of a replacement.
Having failed to prise Calafiori from Arsenal, Milan are now targeting Oleksandr Zinchenko as an alternative.
The Ukraine international endured a frustrating 2024/25 campaign, managing just five Premier League starts and falling down the pecking order behind Calafiori and academy product Myles Lewis-Skelly.
Talks have already taken place between Milan and Arsenal regarding Zinchenko, but the 28-year-old’s £200,000-per-week wages are a significant hurdle.
Zinchenko is one of several left-back options whose futures are uncertain. Kieran Tierney is set to rejoin Celtic on a free transfer, while Jakub Kiwior is being tracked by multiple Italian clubs and could also leave this summer.
Takehiro Tomiyasu is expected to miss the start of the season following knee surgery, and Jurrien Timber — although naturally a right-back — is recovering from an ankle operation.
Lewis-Skelly remains a long-term midfield prospect rather than a full-time defensive option, further highlighting the thin depth in that area of the pitch.
Arsenal have shown strong interest in Ajax teenager Jorrel Hato, who fits the club’s model and positional needs. Chelsea and Liverpool are also keen, but Arsenal’s lack of cover may help tip the scales in their favour.
For now, though, Calafiori remains central to Arteta’s plans, and Arsenal are standing firm.