Inter Eyes Arsenal's Calafiori as Top Replacement for Bastoni
Inter Milan has reportedly set its sights on Arsenal and Italy defender Riccardo Calafiori as the preferred successor to Alessandro Bastoni, should the latter depart for Barcelona. A potential transfer fee for Calafiori has also been mentioned.
Sources in both Spain and Italy indicate that Bastoni is Barcelona's prime choice to bolster their defense this summer. Securing his services from San Siro would likely require an investment of approximately €80 million, with the possibility of a player exchange making the deal more feasible.
Calafiori Emerges as Key Candidate for Inter's Defense
Consequently, Inter is considering options to reinforce the core of their back three, with Calafiori identified as the ideal candidate. The defender, who will turn 24 in May, is an Italy international, much like Bastoni, and is known for his versatile role, capable of playing both as a centre-back and a left-back.
Arsenal acquired Calafiori from Bologna in the summer of 2024 for €43.7 million, plus up to €5 million in bonuses. However, a combination of injury issues and fierce competition has limited him to just 29 competitive appearances this season, with only 22 starts. Reports suggest that Arsenal would be amenable to selling the Italian international for €50 million, securing a modest profit on their initial investment.
Inter is also keen to utilize Calafiori in his most comfortable position, rather than strictly as a left-back. This represents an ambitious strategy for the Nerazzurri, who typically prioritize cost-efficiency. Nevertheless, the substantial profit generated from Bastoni's potential sale would provide significant financial flexibility for such a move.
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