Arsenal Football Club is reportedly close to signing Riccardo Calafiori, a 22-year-old centre-back from Bologna, according to renowned journalist Gianluca Di Marzio.
The club has identified Calafiori as a top priority this summer and has already submitted an initial bid of £40 million.
However, Bologna is holding out for a higher offer, seeking at least £42.4 million due to a 40 percent profit clause owed to Calafiori’s former club, Basel.
Despite interest from other top European clubs like Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, and Bayer Leverkusen, Arsenal’s project has resonated with both Calafiori and Bologna, putting them in the driver’s seat to secure the Italian defender’s signature.
Arsenal’s participation in the Champions League next season gives them a significant advantage over their rivals, particularly Chelsea, who are also vying for Calafiori’s services.
Calafiori would be a valuable addition to Arsenal’s squad, offering versatility and a range of skills that would bolster the team’s defense.
He can play both central defense and left-back, and his strengths include excellent ball-playing skills, aerial presence, tackling, and ball recoveries.
He also has the ability to contribute to goals, making him a well-rounded defender.
Arsenal’s interest in Calafiori may be linked to the potential departure of Jakub Kiwior, who has been linked with a return to Serie A amid interest from Juventus and AC Milan.
Calafiori’s arrival would provide a suitable replacement for Kiwior and add depth to Arsenal’s defense.
The transfer negotiations between Arsenal and Bologna are progressing positively, with Arsenal likely to submit an improved bid to meet Bologna’s demands.
Arsenal’s discreet transfer activity this window suggests that the club is working behind the scenes to secure their key targets, and Calafiori is among them.
Arsenal is leading the race to sign Riccardo Calafiori, a talented young defender who would be a valuable addition to their squad.
With their Champions League participation and appealing project, Arsenal has the upper hand in negotiations, and it is likely that Calafiori will don the Arsenal jersey next season.
