Arsenal defender Riccardo Calafiori has issued a response to rumours that he could be set for a shock transfer move to Serie A side AC Milan.
Calafiori joined Arsenal on a long-term contract less than 12 months ago in July 2024, with the Gunners signing him in a £42m deal from Bologna.
The 23-year-old has played 29 games for Arsenal in his first season at the club but concerns have been raised over his fitness and injury record.
Calafiori has missed a number of matches due to a knee issue while he also suffered a muscle injury and calf problems earlier this season.
He has now been linked with a stunning return to the Italian top-flight with AC Milan reported to be interested in signing Calafiori from Arsenal.
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But the Italy international has insisted he is not thinking about a potential early exit from the Emirates and wants to remain in the Premier League.
Speaking to gianlucadimarzio.com about the AC Milan transfer rumours, Calafiori said: ‘I am very happy at Arsenal.’
Calafiori has also played down talk of his Arsenal move being a ‘regret’ after the club’s trophyless season and has opened up about his injuries.
‘In my opinion, what was missing was just continuity this year,’ Calafiori added.
‘I will try to be more consistent next year. When I was good, I always played and I also made the difference. The goal is just to stay in shape all year.
‘For me personally, [my first season in England] was a great experience. Obviously when you win trophies it’s always better.
‘Here I measured myself against the most important and difficult championship in the world.
‘I saw that I can be there easily, this made me very happy and I am convinced of the choice I made. A regret? None, absolutely.’
Speaking earlier this season, Lukas Podolski said that Calafiori had to ‘improve’ and that he had not yet reached his best level at Arsenal.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, though, has always spoken highly of the Italian and his qualities.
Speaking after the 1-0 Premier League win over Wolves in January, in which Calafiori scored the only goal, Arteta singled him out for praise.
‘Riccy can produce these magic moments,’ Arteta said.
‘It really helped the team so [I am] really glad. He has the experience to make things happen.’