Ricardo Kaliori, Arsenal and Mikel Arteta (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
Real Madrid has been paying attention to Arsenal defender Riccardo Calfioli before the summer transfer period, but it’s not cheap to praise him from North London.
The gunners are reportedly demanding at least 80 million euros from the Italians who joined the club last year.
Calafiori switched from Bologna to Arsenal for 45 million euros after an outstanding season in Serie A and a very impressive Euro 2024 campaign. However, his game time was limited, with academy star Miles Lewis Skelly jumping over him in the Mikel Arteta pecking order.
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Since arriving at the Emirates, the 22-year-old has started just 11 Premier League games, completing 90 minutes in one league game since October.
His role in Arsenal has led Madrid to closely monitor the situation as they are looking for a new left back this summer, according to Spanish outlet Fichejjes.
Arsenal has decided to keep Calfiali following their inauguration season
Despite his lack of regular start, Arsenal still sees Calafiori as an important part of his long-term planning and wants to keep him “as much as possible.” Chelsea were interested in signing him last year, but there are no indications that even in the defensive struggle this season they are planning another move.
Calafiori is not the only gunner defender on Real Madrid’s radar. The Los Blancos are reportedly interested in William Saliba as they are looking to strengthen their 2025 backline.
However, Saliba has revealed he is happy in North London, and Arsenal is working on a new contract to let the transfer speculation rest.
As Madrid turns, Arsenal is now facing a fight to defend two major defenders before the important summer window.