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Calafiori told Arsenal would be ‘ideal’ destination for him

By Ritayan Chatterjee on July 5, 2024

Former Italy defender Marco Materazzi has told Bologna star Riccardo Calafiori that Arsenal would be the ‘ideal’ destination for him to develop his career.

The 22-year-old has been attracting the attention of several big clubs around Europe after displaying his qualities in Serie A last term, helping his side qualify for the Champions League.

It initially looked like Juventus were the favourite to sign him and the player was said to be open to moving to the Old Lady of Turin. But, Bologna have decided not to sell him to a direct rival and are only willing to move him abroad.

Arsenal and Chelsea have reportedly registered their interest in signing him but it seems the Gunners are more advanced than the Blues to get the deal done.

Arsenal have already persuaded the defender to join and they will now have to agree on a deal in principle with Bologna to seal the move with the Rossoblu demanding around £42m.

Calafiori to Arsenal

Now, speaking on Sport Mediaset, Materazzi has said that Calafiori enjoyed a promising campaign last term and the youngster now needs to be careful before deciding his next destination.

The ex-defender further claims that the Premier League is different from Serie A, however, Arsenal could be the ‘ideal’ team for him to develop his career.

Materazzi said:

“He[Calafiori] had an incredible championship. And, if he leaves Bologna, he must make the right choice. Either he goes with Thiago Motta [to Juventus], otherwise I read about Arsenal. The Premier League is a different kind of football. But [Arsenal] could be the ideal team for him.”

Calafiori is extremely comfortable with the ball at his feet and is excellent in the air. In addition, he is quick and also is efficient in defensive contributions.

He is a centre-back by traits but can also play in the left-back role. So, the defender would be the perfect signing to play in Mikel Arteta’s system if Arsenal purchase him.

It is going to be interesting to see whether the North London club can eventually manage to secure his signature in this transfer window to reinforce their backline.