Real Madrid have reportedly made contact with those close to Arsenal defender Riccardo Calafiori, according to transfer insider Fabrizio Romano.
Romano revealed the approach on YouTube, describing it as Real Madrid asking for information on the Italian international defender a few weeks ago.
Los Blancos are actively looking to strengthen their defensive options, with both the centre-back and left-back positions identified as areas of need.
“Real Madrid are not done for defenders because the situation is linked to the centre-back and left-back position,” Romano explained during his YouTube update.
He noted that Real currently have Alvaro Carreras and Ferland Mendy at left-back, though Mendy has suffered persistent injury problems in recent seasons.
Romano made clear that a versatile defensive profile is what Real Madrid are targeting, with Calafiori fitting that description perfectly given his ability to operate centrally and on the left.
“The idea of Real Madrid is if there is an opportunity of a player who can help as a centre-back and as a left-back, and Riccardo Calafiori for example is that kind of profile,” Romano said.
Manchester City’s Josko Gvardiol was also mentioned as a player Real Madrid appreciate, though Romano described him as a difficult target at this stage.
Romano was clear that Calafiori will not come cheap, stressing that Arsenal regard him as a central part of their long-term plans.
“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,” Romano stated.
The 24-year-old has featured in 26 of Arsenal’s 38 league matches in the most recent campaign, improving on his injury-affected previous season where he played only half their games.
Arsenal do have alternative left-back options available, with Piero Hincapie and Myles Lewis-Skelly both capable of covering the position, alongside Jurrien Timber as a potential emergency solution.
A sufficiently large offer this summer could yet prompt Arsenal into a decision, particularly if a more fitness-reliable replacement can be identified to take Calafiori’s place in the squad.
