La Liga champions Real Madrid are reportedly eyeing Bologna defender Riccardo Calafiori as an alternative to Leny Yoro.
According to a report by Spanish outlet AS, Riccardo Calafiori is the subject of interest from Real Madrid. The Merengues are prioritising a move for 18-year-old LOSC Lille defender Leny Yoro heading into the summer transfer window. However, they are keeping their options open and have identified the Bologna defender, valued at €40 million by the Serie A club, as an alternative to Yoro.
The rise of Riccardo Calafiori
Riccardo Calafiori has established himself as one of the best young players in Serie A after his debut campaign with Bologna. The Rossoblu signed him for only €4 million from FC Basel in August 2023. Since then, his market value has soared, rising to €30 million.
The 22-year-old has turned out 33 times thus far for Bologna, chipping in with two goals and five assists. In addition, Calafiori’s exploits have helped him break into his national team, making his senior bow for Italy ahead of UEFA Euro 2024 before becoming the first-choice starter in the group stage.
The Italian international has piqued the interest of several high-profile clubs across Europe with his progress at Bologna FC. Premier League bigwigs, in particular, have shown interest in the youngster heading into the summer transfer window. However, they will face stiff competition from Real Madrid.
Real Madrid move on the cards?
Real Madrid’s interest in Riccardo Calafiori is understandable. The Merengues are scouring the market for a centre-back heading into the summer transfer window after losing Nacho as a free agent. In addition, Rafa Marin will likely join Napoli this summer, while David Alaba and Antonio Rudiger are on the wrong side of 30.
So, it behoves Real Madrid to sign a young centre-back, with Leny Yoro being the top target. Recent reports have claimed that they are closing in on signing the Frenchman. However, the Merengues are keeping their options open, with Calafiori being an alternative to Yoro. Meanwhile, Bologna will demand €40 million to part ways with the 22-year-old defender.
It will be interesting to see if Real Madrid will meet the Serie A club’s valuation to secure Riccardo Calafiori’s services in the summer transfer window. However, they will prefer to complete a move for Leny Yoro instead of turning to Calafiori.
