Calafiori: Reports Bayer Leverkusen interested in promising Bologna defender

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.