Rafa Marín is set to shake up the Serie A landscape as he prepares for a medical with Napoli, paving the way for his departure from Real Madrid. The deal, valued at a hefty €12 million, signals a bold move by Napoli to bolster their defensive ranks. However, the intrigue doesn't stop there. Reports indicate a strategic buy-back clause structure that could redefine his future.
Initially, Napoli will secure Marín's services for a fixed fee, with an eye-watering €25 million buy-back clause slated for 2026. If exercised in 2025, Napoli can escalate the buy-back clause to €50 million for 2026 and €70 million for 2027, underlining Real Madrid's confidence in the young talent's potential.
Meanwhile, across the channel, Arsenal is hot on the trail of Riccardo Calafiori, with negotiations reaching a critical juncture. Sources close to the situation reveal that Arsenal is optimistic about sealing the deal next week. Calafiori's enthusiasm for the Arsenal project has been pivotal, with the promising full-back reportedly eager to commit until June 2029 for a substantial €4 million net per season.
The proposed move would see Calafiori swap the Eternal City for the Emirates, a decision driven by both professional ambition and financial reward. With the final round of talks on the horizon, Arsenal appears primed to secure their target, adding depth and dynamism to their defensive lineup.
The imminent transfers of Marín and Calafiori underscore the competitive fervor gripping European football this summer. Napoli's ambitious acquisition of Marín promises to reshape their defensive strategy, while Arsenal's pursuit of Calafiori reflects their determination to fortify their squad ahead of the upcoming campaign.
As the transfer window unfolds, all eyes will be on Napoli and Arsenal, as these blockbuster moves set the stage for a thrilling season ahead in Serie A and the Premier League.