It looks unlikely that Chelsea will be able to complete their desired move for Riccardo Calafiori from London rivals Arsenal, per Caught Offside.
Interest from the Blues in the Italian defender was initially reported a couple of weeks ago, with it suggested Liam Rosenior's side had kept Calafiori in view for a while, having first wanted him when Arsenal signed him.
The same report suggested that the defender was keen on gaining more game time and could therefore look for a move away from the Emirates.
Indeed, Calafiori has essentially started half of the 31 Premier League games Arsenal have played this season, and the Italian is eager to be a starter elsewhere.
Caught Offside reports, though, that it's unlikely for Chelsea to land him. They have reiterated the Blues' interest in Calafiori, but state there are two reasons why a move seems improbable.
Firstly, Arsenal don't want to sell to a direct rival, and secondly, Calafiori prefers to return to Italy, where there's no shortage of interest in him.
Inter Milan want Calafiori
Prior to his move to Arsenal, the Italian international had played for a trio of clubs in his home country: Roma, Genoa and most recently, Bologna, where he impressed for a single season, leading to his move to the Emirates.
His performances in a Gunners shirt have reportedly led to interest from Inter Milan.
It's reported that Alessandro Bastoni could be on his way to Barcelona, and should that move happen, Inter want to replace their star centre-back with Calafiori.
In any case, Arsenal aren't ready to lose the Italian international, and he himself is not angling for a move just yet, but Inter see the situation of his role as something they could exploit.
A source reportedly told Caught Offside: "Calafiori isn’t pushing to leave Arsenal, but he’s fallen behind Piero Hincapie in the pecking order this season, so Inter feel it’s a deal that would be worth exploring. He’s keen to return to Italy at some point, and though this is a bit sooner than expected, it can’t be ruled out for this summer."
