Real Madrid has contacted the entourage of Arsenal defender Riccardo Calafiori to gather information, while the London club has set an asking price in excess of €100 million, according to reports. The Spanish giants have made preliminary enquiries regarding the 24-year-old’s long-term availability, though no formal bid has yet reached the Emirates Stadium.

Arsenal Sets Valuation Above €100 Million as Real Madrid Enquires

The defender arrived in north London during the summer of 2024 from Bologna for an initial 43,7 M€ fee.

Real Madrid’s pursuit stems from an ongoing evaluation of defensive reinforcements. According to reports from CaughtOffside, club officials appreciate Calafiori’s tactical flexibility. The defender can operate centrally or on the flank, while possessing the technical capacity to step into midfield during possession phases.

Despite exploratory contact with the player’s representatives, Arsenal remain entirely resistant to a sale. Club executives view the defender as an essential component of Arteta’s long-term project. Consequently, the Premier League side has indicated that negotiations would only begin for bids exceeding €100 million—a steep threshold that previously caused Madrid to hesitate during the summer window.

Contract Stability and Tactical Value Strengthen Arsenal’s Stance

Arsenal’s hardline valuation is reinforced by long-term contractual security. Calafiori’s current agreement runs through June 2029, leaving the club in total control of his future. Furthermore, sources close to the player indicate that the defender has expressed no desire to force an exit from the English capital.

Arteta’s initial assessment upon signing the player has proven prophetic. The Arsenal manager previously described the defender on the club’s official website as possessing a big personality and specific skills that make the team stronger. His market value has since climbed to approximately €65m following consistent domestic and European performances.

While Real Madrid continues to monitor his progression, a concrete transfer in the near future remains unlikely given the financial demands set by the English club. For now, Calafiori stays anchored to north London as a vital pillar of Arsenal’s defensive structure.