Expert Verdict: Arsenal Plan to 'Get Rid' of Calafiori After 'Serious' Update

Arsenal are reportedly planning to offload defender Riccardo Calafiori following recurring injury concerns that have undermined his reliability since his £42m arrival from Bologna in summer 2024.[1][3]

Calafiori, a versatile Italy international capable of playing centre-back or left-back, joined with high expectations after impressing at Euro 2024 and earning praise from Mikel Arteta for his potential and enthusiasm. Arteta highlighted his fit into Arsenal's evolving defensive strategy, noting his skills would enhance competition alongside stars like William Saliba.[1] The deal, worth up to £42m including add-ons, underscored Arsenal's defence-first squad-building approach under Arteta.[1]

However, persistent fitness issues have confirmed pre-existing fears about Calafiori's physical durability. Exclusive reports reveal Arsenal's growing concerns, initially flagged in January 2026, resurfaced dramatically before Sunday's FA Cup win over Wigan Athletic. Calafiori withdrew from the squad during warm-up due to an unspecified problem, forcing Bukayo Saka into an unconventional No.10 role.[4] His return timeline remains unclear, amplifying frustrations for Arteta, who has struggled with left-back options amid Myles Lewis-Skelly's inability to secure trust.[4]

In response, Arsenal are actively scouting replacements. They are tracking Real Madrid prospect Victor Valdepenas, a highly rated Castilla defender eyed for a summer move. The 23-year-old, with similar aerial strengths to Calafiori, has drawn interest from AC Milan, Borussia Dortmund, and Bayer Leverkusen despite just one senior outing. Real Madrid recently improved his contract until 2029 but only boosted his salary, leaving room for negotiations—his €50m release clause noted but unlikely to be met fully by Arsenal.[4]

Arteta has also monitored Newcastle's Tino Livramento as a left-back option. These moves signal Arsenal's intent to "get rid" of Calafiori, whose injuries have disrupted plans, prompting a strategic pivot to more robust talents.[4] (Word count: 298)