Real Madrid are planning a major squad overhaul this summer, with priority being put on strengthening the defense. With the departures of Dani Carvajal and David Alaba, as well as potential departures of players like Raul Asencio and Fran Garcia, and adding on top of that constant injuries to players like Dean Huijsen, Eder Militao, and Ferland Mendy and the defensive depth is shockingly nonexistent. As a result the club are keeping an eye on the market looking for versatile defenders that can cover a number of different positions, and Jose Mourinho has identified on in particular he wants to bring to the Bernabeu.
As being reported by journalist Ramon Alvarez on X, Jose Mourinho has asked Real Madrid to explore the option of signing Arsenal defender Riccardo Calafiori as he looks to reshape Real's backline this summer. Mourinho is a fan of the Italian's versatility as he can play both center-back and left-back, making him an appealing candidate to be brought in.
Jose Mourinho eyes out of favor Arsenal defender
The Italian arrived at Arsenal from Bologna ahead of the 24/25 season and enjoyed quite a strong first season at the London club however injuries somewhat plagued his season this year, seeing him fall out of favor to player like Piero Hincapie and as a result some questions are being asked about his future with the Gunners and this has peaked the interest of the next Real Madrid manager.
Real Madrid have reportedly already agreed deals for Liverpool center-back Ibrahima Konate and Inter Milan fullback Denzel Dumfries and they now look to add Calafiori to that list. The Italian brings a number of attributes to the table that are key for Los Blancos including his good play on the ball, his strong tackle success but most importantly he is left footed and can play as both a center-back and left-back, which is exactly the kind of defender Real Madrid are looking for.
Real Madrid are also looking at Manchester City defender Josko Gvardiol as a potential option as he can also play as both a center-back and left-back, however at the moment a deal for Calafiori seems more realistic at the moment.
The Italian is currently valued at around €55 million compared to the close to €90 million Real would have to pay if they wanted to sign Gvardiol. The club still has a number of other areas in the team to reinforce so signing Calafiori for €55 million could prove to be a steal of a deal when you consider the moves the club has already made and it looks like Florentino Perez is serious about getting back to the top of Europe this season.
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