Arsenal defender Riccardo Calafiori is open to returning to Serie A in the summer transfer window, with the 23-year-old Italian international ready to snub Chelsea.
According to a report by Caught Offside, Chelsea and Inter Milan are interested in 23-year-old versatile Arsenal defender Riccardo Calafiori. The two European giants are keen on reinforcing their defensive unit by signing a centre-back in the coming months. However, the Blues face defeat in the battle for his signature.
The latest report has brought bad news for Chelsea, as Calafiori wants to return to Serie A if he leaves Arsenal in the upcoming transfer window. While the Gunners want to keep the Rome native beyond the 2025/26 season, a summer departure is not out of the question for the player.
How has Riccardo Calafiori fared at Arsenal?
Riccardo Calafiori has established himself as one of the most dependable defenders in the Premier League since joining Arsenal from Bologna in a deal worth £42 million, including add-ons, in July 2024. While the 23-year-old took some time to get going and endured some fitness issues, he has been a reliable performer at the back for the North London club.
The Italian international has been a utility man and an asset for Arteta, as he can play as a centre-back and a left-back. Calafiori has made over 50 appearances thus far while chipping in with four goals and five assists. Meanwhile, the player’s progress has piqued the attention of several high-profile clubs, with Chelsea and Inter Milan among the prospective suitors vying for his signature.
What next?
Inter Milan’s interest in Riccardo Calafiori is understandable. The Serie A table-toppers are combing the market for a centre-back heading into the summer transfer window, as Alessandro Bastoni faces an uncertain future at San Siro amid his links with Barcelona. Additionally, Francesco Acerbi and Stefan de Vrij are on the wrong side of 30 and in the twilight of their careers. So, Calafiori is a viable target for Inter Milan.
As for Chelsea, the Blues have been keen on signing a centre-back since last summer, as they want a long-term central defensive partner for Levi Colwill. Additionally, Calafiori’s ability to play as a left-back makes him an appealing target for Chelsea. However, the West London club may have no chance to sign the former Bologna defender.
While the 23-year-old Italian international would prefer to return to Serie A this summer, Arsenal will never entertain offers from a Premier League rival for a pivotal figure like him. So, a move to Inter Milan is highly likely amid widespread reports linking Bastoni with a summer departure.
