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Arsenal step up efforts to sign Riccardo Calafiori

By on July 3, 2024

Arsenal have reportedly stepped up their efforts to sign Bologna star Riccardo Calafiori this summer, as per the Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano.

The Gunners are said to be looking to reinforce a few areas of the squad with the attack and the engine room being among those. However, it appears they are also willing to sign a new left-footed defender with reports regarding the North London club’s interest in Calafiori starting to gather pace in recent days.

Arsenal have been quiet in this window but they have seemingly started accelerating their efforts to strengthen the squad. The Italian was busy playing in the European Championship but following the Azzurri’s elimination, Mikel Arteta’s side could now manage to get the deal done quickly.

Writing on X, Romano has reported that Arsenal have presented a long-term proposal to Calafiori and the player has already been convinced by the Gunners’ project so he has agreed on a move to the Emirates Stadium.

Bologna director Giovanni Sartori has recently revealed that they want to keep hold of their star man but if they are forced to cash-in then they will only allow him to move abroad.

Calafiori to Arsenal

Romano also states that Mikel Arteta has ‘approved’ a deal to sign the 22-year-old with the Italian side wanting a fee of around £42m for their star man.

The journalist also claims that Bologna have an excellent relationship with Arsenal after the Takehiro Tomiyasu deal and this could help Arsenal win this race as Chelsea are also showing interest in signing him.

Calafiori joined Rossoblu from FC Basel last summer so he still has three years left in his current contract. Therefore, the Italian side are in a strong position to stay firm on their valuation.

With Jakub Kiwior linked with a move away from the club, Arsenal are said to be looking to sign a new left-back to create competition for Oleksandr Zinchenko next season. Mikel Arteta generally uses centre-back in the fullback positions and have been linked with Jorrel Hato and Willian Pacho.

However, Calafiori is now emerging as the primary target, the Bologna star is a centre-back by traits but can also play in the left-back position. He is a technically sound defender and is also extremely comfortable with the ball at his feet.

In addition, he is efficient in defensive contributions so he would be a great coup for Arsenal if they purchase him in this transfer window.