Arsenal set to secure Italian defender Calafiori’s signature

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Arsenal have reached an agreement with Serie A club Bologna to acquire defender Riccardo Calafiori’s services.

The Italian centre-back had an excellent season, helping Bologna qualify for the Champions League. His Euro 2024 performances for Italy have boosted his profile significantly.

His value has risen sharply due to these displays, ensuring Bologna will profit despite Basel’s 50% sell-on clause. The initial £3.4m outlay now seems like a bargain.

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Arsenal has emerged as the frontrunner to sign Calafiori in a €50m (£42m) deal as talks have been ongoing for weeks to negotiate a suitable payment structure.

However, Bologna is holding out for €45m plus €5m in add-ons, including a high upfront payment. As it stands, Arsenal aims to lower this and include additional clauses and future inducements.

Reports indicated Arsenal doubled efforts to sign Calafiori, aiming to complete the deal quickly due to other clubs’ interest. The versatile defender fits the profile many top teams are seeking.

Earlier, football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano revealed an agreement has been reached. This means Arsenal will pay a guaranteed €40m (£33.7m), €5m in add-ons, and a sell-on clause.

Calafiori perfect fit for Arteta’s Arsenal

Calafiori, asked to attend pre-season training by Bologna while the deal was finalised, agreed to a five-year contract with Arsenal. With Arsenal’s strong interest, the player definitely meets all criteria the Gunners sought in a new recruit.

Right now, the north Londoners have Gabriel Magalhaes and William Saliba as their first-choice centre-back pairing. Calafiori’s versatility aligns with Mikel Arteta’s preference for inverted full-backs.

During the recently concluded Euro 2024 tournament, Calafiori displayed willingness to step into midfield and push the ball forward. This enables him to free up spaces for Italy’s attackers to take advantage of.

If Arsenal finalises the deal, the club will likely consider moving one of their current full-backs. 24-year-old Polish international Jakub Kiwior has been the most obviously linked with an exit from Emirates Stadium so far.

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