Fabrizio Romano shares Riccardo Calafiori update involving Real Madrid
Arsenal’s summer transfer planning is continuing on multiple fronts as the Premier League champions look to strengthen an already formidable squad ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.
One of the most interesting developments this week has involved Leicester City teenager Jeremy Monga.
Multiple reports, including from the likes of talkSPORThave indicated that Arsenal are among the clubs pushing to secure the highly-rated youngster’s signature after his breakthrough emergence.
Mikel Arteta’s side have long prioritised elite young talent, and Monga fits that profile perfectly as the club continues planning for both the present and the future.
At the same time, Arsenal remain heavily linked with a number of attacking targets.
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The Toffees relaxed about it.
Aston Villa star Morgan Rogers continues to feature prominently in transfer speculation after reports suggested he would be open to a move to north London.
Atlético Madrid forward Julian Alvarez has also remained on Arsenal’s radar, despite fierce competition and reports of talks with Barcelona.
Those links underline Arsenal’s determination to improve their attacking options despite winning the league title last season.
However, while attention has largely focused on potential arrivals, a new report suggests one of Arsenal’s key defenders has also attracted interest from one of Europe’s biggest clubs.
Real Madrid hold talks with Arsenal star Riccardo Calafiori’s camp
According to Fabrizio Romano, Real Madrid have made contact with people close to Riccardo Calafiori as they assess potential defensive targets.
Speaking on his YouTube channelRomano explained they’re fans of the Italian, but a deal is far from straightforward.
“On the other side, for Calafiori, what I can reveal to you is that there’s been a contact with those close to Calafiori a few weeks ago, with Real Madrid asking about information on the Italian defender.
“He’s still a very important player for Arsenal. So, he’s not an easy one at all. And for Arsenal, Calafiori is really an important part of the project.
“So, let’s see what’s happening there. But Real Madrid are looking for that kind of player.”
While Romano stops short of suggesting any formal negotiations have taken place, the fact enquiries were reportedly made with Calafiori’s close circle indicates the Spanish giants are concretely interested in the Italy international.
From Arsenal’s perspective, the stance appears straightforward.
Calafiori remains a major part of Arteta’s plans and is viewed as one of the cornerstones of the club’s defence.
Since arriving in north London, the versatile defender has established himself as a very useful member of the squad thanks to his ability to play both centrally and at left-back.
His technical quality, composure in possession and tactical flexibility have made him an ideal fit for Arteta’s system.
Arsenal are under no pressure to sell and would be reluctant to weaken a defence that played a crucial role in last season’s title success. Calafiori is also entering what many would consider the prime years of his career, making him exactly the type of player the club want to build around rather than cash in on.
Nevertheless, Real Madrid’s admiration is understandable.
The European giants are known to be exploring defensive additions, and Calafiori’s profile fits many of the attributes they are believed to be seeking. At 24 years old, he combines top-level experience with significant room for further development.
For now, there is no indication that Arsenal are entertaining the idea of a sale.
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