Inter Milan Set Sights on Arsenal's Calafiori as Bastoni Replacement
Arsenal defender Riccardo Calafiori has emerged as a primary transfer target for Serie A giants Inter Milan, according to reports from Italy. The 23-year-old, who joined the Gunners from Bologna for £42 million in the summer of 2024, could be set for a swift return to Serie A.
Italian outlet L'Interista reports that Inter are readying a concrete bid of around €50 million (£43.5m) to secure the defender. The move is reportedly part of a defensive reshuffle at the San Siro, with the Nerazzurri preparing for the potential high-profile departure of star defender Alessandro Bastoni.
Calafiori, who has made 58 appearances for Arsenal, has seen his playing time become more limited this season. The Italian international, who can play as a centre-back or left-back, has reportedly become frustrated with his role, having fallen behind Piero Hincapie in the pecking order at left-back under manager Mikel Arteta. Arsenal are said to be considering a permanent move for Hincapie this summer, further complicating Calafiori's future at the Emirates.
Inter Milan's interest is reportedly serious, with manager Cristian Chivu viewing the 23-year-old as an ideal tactical fit. The report suggests Calafiori could either slot into the left side of a back three or operate as a more traditional left-back in a back four, a role that would allow current wing-back Federico Dimarco to push further forward.
The potential move for Calafiori is said to be part of a chain reaction in the transfer market. Inter are reportedly preparing for the possible sale of Bastoni, who is a target for both Liverpool and Barcelona. The funds and squad space generated from a Bastoni sale would be directed towards securing Calafiori's signature.
Despite the strong links, sources close to Arsenal have indicated that the club currently has no intention of selling Calafiori this summer. The defender, who was a key part of Italy's Euro 2024 squad, remains under contract in North London until 2029. However, with the player reportedly unsettled by a lack of consistent starts, a significant offer from Inter could test the Gunners' resolve in the upcoming transfer window.
