Mourinho Targets Arsenal Star for Real Madrid’s Rebuild

Jose Mourinho is reportedly eyeing Arsenal defender Riccardo Calafiori as part of his rebuild at Real Madrid, according to the Mirror.

While the move is surprising—Mourinho sold Calafiori during his tenure at Roma—he now believes the Italian international would be a valuable addition to the Spanish giants.

Mourinho has already secured deals for Inter Milan defender Denzel Dumfries and Liverpool centre‑back Ibrahima Konaté. Konaté is set to leave Liverpool on a free, while Dumfries will join for a £20 million buy‑out. Mourinho now seeks another defender.

Calafiori was with Roma when Mourinho was manager, and the club sold him to Basel for £1.5 million in 2022. Two years later, Arsenal purchased him for £42 million.

Italy international Calafiori is a popular member of the Arsenal squad and has just celebrated the club’s first title in 22 years.

Calafiori: I’m Prepared For New Premier League Season

Calafiori has also struggled with injuries, and Real Madrid may test Arsenal’s resolve during this transfer window. The stylish defender—capable of playing left back or centre back—also represents Italy but missed the World Cup.

Arsenal’s defensive options include Piero Hincapié and Myles Lewis‑Skelly, and Calafiori was the only out‑of‑position player in the Champions League final, despite an injury.

Also Read: I’ll Be Delighted If Mourinho Replaces Me – Arbeloa

Mourinho’s second spell at Real has not yet been officially confirmed, though he has signed a three‑year contract to return to the club. The formal announcement is expected after this weekend’s election to decide Real Madrid’s president. Incumbent Florentino Pérez is facing a contested election against Enrique Riquelme. Voters will decide on Sunday (June 7), with Pérez hinting that the club’s first summer transfer will be announced on Thursday.