Arsenal FC
Arsenal FC
As per latest transfer news, Real Madrid are interested bringing Riccardo Calafiori to the Bernabeu, but Arsenal have kept a price tag of more than €100 million and will keep him unless it is met. His growing influence under Mikel Arteta has made him an important part of the club’s long-term plans.
Arsenal set huge asking price for Riccardo Calafiori
Calafiori joined Arsenal from Bologna in 2024 and has continued to establish himself as a reliable option in defence. The 24-year-old can play at centre-back or left-back, giving Arteta greater flexibility when setting up his team.
As reported by CaughtOffside, Real Madrid have made enquiries to learn more about his situation. However, the La Liga giants have not submitted a formal offer, and Arsenal are in a strong position to decide his future.
The Gunners reportedly value Calafiori at more than €100 million and have no intention of allowing him to leave for a smaller fee. His contract runs until June 2029, which gives the London club considerable control over negotiations.
Calafiori has also shown no intention for a move away from the Emirates. With his performances improving, Arsenal have little reason to consider selling a player who remains important to Arteta’s plans.
Why Real Madrid want the Italian defender
Madrid’s interest in Calafiori makes sense because he can help the team in many ways. He defends well, carries the ball forward and moves into midfield when his team has the ball. These skills make him a good fit for teams that want defenders who can help in both attack and defence. His ability to play in different roles could also help Madrid deal with injuries and rest players without losing much quality.
Arteta recognised Calafiori’s potential when the Premier League side completed his signing. Calafiori has grown as a player since joining Arsenal. He even scores goals and carries the ball forward, contributing to the attack. Madrid may see him as a long-term signing. He could help improve their defence for years to come. However, signing him would cost the club a lot of money.
Calafiori’s Arsenal stats for the 2025/26 season, as per FOTMOB:
Competition Appearances Clean sheets Successful passes(%) Duels won(%)
Premier League 26 4 85.6% 56.5%
FA Cup 2 0 93.9% 44.4%
EFL Cup 2 0 90.6% 77.8%
Champions League 6 2 87.4% 64.9%
Arsenal FC
Arsenal FC
Arsenal hold the advantage in transfer battle
Calafiori’s estimated market value is around €65m, but Arsenal’s reported asking price is considerably higher. The difference reflects his importance to the squad, his remaining contract and the club’s reluctance to lose a key player.
Madrid may continue monitoring his performances, but there is no indication that a transfer is close. Any serious attempt to sign him would see the Spanish club have to meet Arsenal’s demands and convince the defender to consider a move away from English football.
Arsenal will need to find a player who can match Calafiori’s quality if they sell him. Arsenal will not rush into a deal**.** They can wait for a better offer instead of selling him for less than they want. Unless Madrid make a big bid, Calafiori is likely to stay an important part of Arsenal’s plans.
For now, Madrid’s interest does not mean a transfer is close. Two key questions remain: will Madrid meet Arsenal’s asking price, and does Calafiori want to move to Spain? The answers could decide his future.
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