Real Madrid are not yet done in the summer transfer window. Having already secured the signing of Kylian Mbappe and Endrick, Carlo Ancelotti is seeking some more new additions early into the 2024 window.
Next up on the transfer priority list is to sign a new defender or two. After all, they have a pretty stacked attack, with the two new additions Endrick and Mbappe only adding to the competition for places in this area of the pitch. Given the ageing nature of the defensive block, it would be logical and prudent for Ancelotti and Florentino Perez to seek young defensive additions.
Real Madrid could hijack Juventus transfer plan for versatile defender
According to a report from Tuttomercatoweb, Real Madrid are considering the signing of Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna this summer. Juventus have shown a keen interest in keeping the versatile defender within the clutches of Serie A, so Real must enter a transfer race with the Old Lady for the signing of Calafiori.
Riccardo Calafiori is primarily a centre back, but he has the ability to play as a left-back or even a midfielder. This will greatly benefit Real Madrid as they are also known to be in the market for a full-back (mostly by the name of Alphonso Davies), therefore, they will be stacked when it comes to squad depth.
Calafiori has been ready for the next step up in his career for a couple of years but ageing at 22 years old, now is the right time. The defender made 30 Serie A appearances last season and he was deservedly called up to the Italy squad for EURO 2024. He started Italy's first game of the competition against Albania, a win for the current European champions.
It is particularly important for Real Madrid to bring in a new defensive option with Nacho Fernandez seemingly moving away this summer. The veteran and club captain has been in talks with Al-Ittihad, currently out of contract in the Spanish capital. Therefore, bringing in the young signing of Calafiori could be beneficial for the long-term health of the club.
That said, Real Madrid have also shown a keen interest in signing Leny Yoro of LOSC. The 18-year-old Frenchman is likely to cost a fair bit more than Calafiori but he seems to be at the top of Real Madrid's shortlist currently. Therefore, it is likely that Calafiori has been located as a backup.
Do you think Real Madrid should sign Riccardo Calafiori?