italy v northern ireland fifa world cup 2026 european qualifiers ko play offs 2
Photo: Getty Images
Real Madrid have reportedly approached Arsenal over a potential summer deal for Riccardo Calafiori.
In recent days, reports from Spain suggested that the Spanish giants are interested in signing the 24-year-old defender.
Follow our LIVE Arsenal transfer updates here!
Incoming Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho is understood to be a huge admirer of Calafiori and is believed to be driving the club’s interest in the Arsenal star.
skysports italt euro 2024 riccardo calafiori 6597327
Now, a fresh update has emerged regarding the Italian’s future.
ADVERTISEMENT
More Arsenal news
Real Madrid exploring summer move for Calafiori
download 2
According to Italian transfer expert Gianluca Di Marzio, Real Madrid have made contact with Arsenal over the possibility of signing Calafiori this summer.
It is claimed that Los Blancos made an initial phone call to register their interest in the Italy international.
ADVERTISEMENT
However, no further progress has been made at this stage, with Real Madrid currently assessing whether Arsenal would be willing to sanction a sale.
0 Arsenal v West Ham United Premier League
The Spanish club are also understood to be exploring whether there is any scope for negotiations over a potential deal.
Calafiori’s current contract at the Emirates runs until the summer of 2029.
ADVERTISEMENT
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.
ADVERTISEMENT
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 remains an important player for Arsenal and a key part of Mikel Arteta’s project, the reality is that every squad evolves over time and difficult decisions sometimes have to be made.
1771567797728 14417
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. The Gunners already have several options at left-back, including Myles Lewis-Skelly and Piero Hincapie.
With Calafiori also often struggling with injuries, Arsenal may feel it is worth to cash in on the defender. For the player himself, a summer move to Real Madrid could be too good to turn down, especially with legendary manager Jose Mourinho set to become the club’s next manager.
For more Arsenal transfer updates, follow our LIVE blog!