Report Calafiori wanted by Mourinho at Real Madrid after Arsenal victory | OneFootball

Jose Mourinho has reportedly asked Real Madrid to sign Italy international Riccardo Calafiori from Arsenal to strengthen their defence next season, after Inter’s Denzel Dumfries.

The Special One has agreed to take over, and it will be finalised if Florentino Perez wins the Presidential elections this weekend.

They have already secured a deal for Inter full-back Dumfries, activating the €20m release clause in his contract and agreeing personal terms with the Dutchman.

Calafiori next on Real Madrid wish list

UDINE, ITALY – OCTOBER 14: Riccardo Calafiori of Italy looks on during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Italy and Israel at Stadio Friuli on October 14, 2025 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Now Real Madrid specialist reporter Ramon Alvarez de Mon claims that Mourinho has also specifically requested Calafiori as a reinforcement for the defence.

The versatility of the Italy international is what intrigues him, able to play as a central defender or a left-back.

LONDON, ENGLAND – MAY 02: Riccardo Calafiori of Arsenal celebrates after scoring a goal which was later ruled out for offside during the Premier League match between Arsenal and Fulham at Emirates Stadium on May 02, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

Calafiori has said that he prefers to play in the centre of defence, whereas at Arsenal he was largely used out of his favoured position.

Fresh from winning the Premier League title, Calafiori was left on the bench throughout the Champions League Final defeat to Paris Saint-Germain.

The Gunners paid €44m plus up to a further €5m in add-ons to purchase him from Bologna in the summer of 2024, though injuries have stalled his progress.

He made 36 competitive appearances for Arsenal this season, contributing one goal and three assists.