Arsenal has successfully secured the transfer of Bologna defender Riccardo Calafiori, despite initial reports suggesting that the deal had hit a snag.
The Gunners have agreed to a £33.7 million transfer fee, with an additional £4.2 million in bonuses and a sell-on clause.
The 22-year-old Italian defender is expected to undergo a medical examination to finalize the transfer.
Calafiori’s agent, Alessandro Lucci, played a crucial role in the final stages of negotiations, helping to resolve initial disagreements over the transfer fee.
The deal includes a 50% sell-on clause, which will benefit Calafiori’s former club, Basel.
The young defender is seen as an ideal solution to Arsenal’s left-back challenges, with his impressive passing skills and defensive capabilities expected to secure him a starting position in the team.
Calafiori was reportedly impressed by discussions with Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, which facilitated smooth negotiations over personal terms.
He is expected to sign a five-year contract, lasting until June 2029, with an annual salary of £3.3 million.
Italian transfer expert Gianluca Di Marzio revealed that Calafiori had other options but chose Arsenal over clubs like Chelsea, highlighting his desire to join the North London side.
Di Marzio stated that Calafiori is the “perfect Premier League defender” and that he wants to play for Arsenal.
Arsenal faced competition from Juventus and Chelsea for Calafiori’s signature, but Bologna’s management was unwilling to sell to a domestic rival, particularly given past tensions with Juventus.
The acquisition of Calafiori is a significant addition to Arsenal’s squad, strengthening an already formidable defense.
Calafiori’s transfer is a cause for celebration among Arsenal fans, who see him as an ideal solution to the team’s left-back challenges.
His impressive skills and defensive capabilities make him an excellent fit for Mikel Arteta’s team.
With Calafiori on board, Arsenal is expected to continue their strong performances in the Premier League.
