Real Madrid are not currently pursuing a deal for Arsenal defender Riccardo Calafiori, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano. Reports earlier this month in Spanish media had suggested that the incoming Real Madrid manager, Jose Mourinho, identified Calafiori as a potential target to bolster his squad this summer.
Mourinho is set to begin his second spell at the Santiago Bernabéu and reportedly sought a versatile defender capable of playing both centre-back and left-back, a profile that Calafiori fits. Romano initially reported that Madrid had made contact with representatives of the Italian defender to gather information.
However, Romano clarified on his YouTube channel that while initial contact was made with Calafiori’s agents a few weeks ago, there has been no direct communication between Real Madrid and Arsenal. He stated that as of today, the Calafiori option is “not that concrete” for Madrid, describing it as a possibility discussed internally but not actively pursued.
Calafiori joined Arsenal from Bologna in the summer of 2023 and quickly established himself as a key player in Mikel Arteta’s squad, making 35 appearances across all competitions. He has become known for his versatility and ability to play multiple positions across the defence. The 26-year-old’s current contract with Arsenal runs until 2028.
Romano also revealed that Mourinho is keen on Manchester City’s Josko Gvardiol, listing him as a high priority target. However, Gvardiol recently signed a new deal with Manchester City, which includes a salary increase, potentially complicating any potential move. The journalist noted that Real Madrid discussed Gvardiol during meetings with Mourinho, but a deal for the Croatian international appears challenging at this stage. The lack of progress on Calafiori suggests Madrid will focus their defensive recruitment elsewhere this transfer window.
