Chelsea, Newcastle United, and Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly contacted Serie A club Bologna over a possible deal for Riccardo Calafiori.
According to a report by Italian outlet Tutto Mercato Web, Chelsea, Newcastle United, and Tottenham Hotspur are interested in signing Riccardo Calafiori in the summer transfer window. The three Premier League clubs have approached Serie A club Bologna to discuss the possibility of signing the 22-year-old prospect.
The rapid rise of Riccardo Calafiori
Riccardo Calafiori has enjoyed a sensational rise to superstardom since joining Bologna from FC Basel last summer. The Italian defender did not take long to establish himself as a pivotal figure for the Rossoblu, with his exploits helping him break into his national team earlier this year.
Meanwhile, the 22-year-old defensive prospect has turned out 33 times thus far, chipping in with two goals and five assists. Calafiori’s progress has not gone unnoticed, capturing the attention of several high-profile clubs, particularly in the Premier League. Chelsea, Newcastle United, and Tottenham Hotspur are interested in him.
Premier League move on the horizon?
Chelsea recently signed Tosin Adarabioyo in a Bosman move. However, the 26-year-old will likely replace Trevoh Chalobah, with the Blues looking to cash in on the 24-year-old utility man. With Chelsea still scouring the market for a long-term replacement for Thiago Silva, Calafiori has emerged as a target, although he will not be a like-for-like replacement.
Meanwhile, Newcastle United’s interest in Riccardo Calafiori is understandable. Like Chelsea, the Magpies have signed a centre-back this summer by completing a Bosman move for Lloyd Kelly. However, with two defenders out for the first half of the 2023/24 season, they need another central defender, bringing the Bologna star into the picture.
As for Tottenham, the North London giants are keen on signing a centre-back amid uncertainties surrounding the long-term future of Eric Dier. In addition, Radu Dragusin is unhappy at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium after failing to establish a foothold at the club following his arrival from Genoa.
The three Premier League clubs have now contacted Bologna over a possible move for Calafiori. So, a summer departure might be on the cards for the 22-year-old prospect, with his spell at the Serie A club likely ending after only one year.