Reports in Germany suggest that Xabi Alonso’s Bayer Leverkusen are interested in a potential move for promising Bologna centre-back Riccardo Calafiori.
According to German outlet Bild, Calafiori is a firm favourite at the BayArena, although he is not currently the first choice on the Rhine.
Thursday’s report suggests that Leverkusen are predominantly interested in 21-year-old, Real Madrid-owned centre-back Rafa Marin, who has spent the 2023-24 season on loan with Alaves in LaLiga.
However, Calafiori remains an enticing option for the recently-confirmed Bundesliga champions, although Bologna are not expected to entertain offers below the €25m mark this summer.
There is also interest in Calafiori from several Serie A sides, including both Juventus and Napoli.
Calafiori’s previous club, FC Basel, also have a significant sell-on clause dating back to his transfer to Bologna last summer, so the Rossoblu will want to get the most out of any offer that comes their way.
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