Liverpool receive huge transfer boost for Riccardo Calafiori amid claims from Real Madrid

Liverpool and many others have been linked with Italy defender Riccardo Calafiori and Bologna boss Giovanni Sartori has given another update on the player. The 22-year-old’s impressive performances at the European Championships in Germany have only increased speculation surrounding the player this summer.

“I can confirm that we will consider proposals for Calafiori,” Sartori said, via Fabrizio Romano. “It would be fantastic to keep him, but we have to be realistic. In case of a good proposal, we will discuss it and we anticipate that clubs from abroad will move.”

However, Calafiori is now being watched by Real Madrid, reports Italian publication Gazzetta Dello Sport. Arsenal and Tottenham are also keen, but Bologna boss Sartori has suggested Juventus could be out of the running.

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Previously believed to be the front-runner for his signature as manager Thiago Motta moved between clubs already this summer, Calafiori is now said to be heading elsewhere. Bologna are desperate not to lose a key player to a Serie A rival.

“I think he will not join Juventus,” Sartori had previously said. “He can probably go abroad, in case we decide to sell him. We would like to keep Calafiori, let’s see what happens.”

Calafiori is appreciated all around $43m (£34m/€40m). Lille wonderkid Leny Yoro remains the player the Reds would ideally find if Real Madrid can’t get a deal for the 18-year-old over the line.

Liverpool.com says: The Reds need to sign a defender to avoid betting on Ibrahima Konate’s fitness, but the obsession with Calafiori on social media comes mainly from a handful of games at Euro 2024. Liverpool have much more evidence to back their base the decision than that.