Why does Riccardo Calafiori joining Arsenal make sense?

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Arsenal are on the brink of securing a major coup in this summer transfer window with their pursuit of Riccardo Calafiori. The Italian defender has seen his star rise in European football recently. 

The 22-year-old defender has garnered attention for his standout performances both at Bologna in Serie A and with the Italian national team during Euro 2024, despite the team’s early exit from the tournament. According to Italian transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Arsenal is close to finalizing a deal for Calafiori, with personal terms already agreed upon and talks between clubs progressing swiftly.

Signing a versatile defender has become a priority for Arsenal, as they have suffered from inconsistent performances from the players in that position. While Oleksandr Zinchenko is generally known as a midfielder, he has evolved into a left back, but Mikel Arteta worries that the 27-year-old is injury-prone and inconsistent.

Arsenal fans are perceiving the aroma of greatness! For the past two seasons, they have turned from mediocre into title contenders. 

Mikel Arteta knows that for him to propel the team even more, he will need to get the fans even more excited and to do that will sign quality players like Riccardo Calafiori. Supporters of the club can purchase Arsenal tickets as the Gunners look to go toe-to-toe with Man City once again next season.

Why is Arsenal pursuing Riccardo Calafiori?

At just 22 years old, Riccardo Calafiori has quickly made a name for himself as a strong versatile defender. His journey started with Swiss giants FC Basel before moving to Bologna last season, where he has quickly become a fan favourite. 

Calafiori’s impact has been profound and has contributed significantly to Bologna’s resurgence in Serie A, resulting in their qualification for the Uefa Champions League, a feat they had not achieved since 1965.  The Italian is known for his defensive solidity and eagerness to contribute to attacks, Calafiori’s skill set has attracted interest from top clubs across Europe.

Arsenal’s interest in Calafiori clearly shows their commitment to boosting and improving their squad ahead of the new season. The Gunners are reportedly in advanced talks to secure the signing of the young defender, with negotiations progressing positively between the clubs. 

Fabrizio Romano’s updates indicate that a deal could be finalised as early as next week, depending on the conclusion of the final round of talks. Calafiori himself has expressed a clear desire to join Arsenal, impressed by the club’s vision under manager Mikel Arteta and the tantalising prospect of playing in the much-viewed Premier League. 

It is the dream of almost every footballer to play in the prestigious Premier League and that alone is very attractive. Also, Arsenal is a big club that is currently doing well and showing huge promise. 

The manager, Mikel Arteta seems to have his act right and has gotten his side to play good football, it is an attractive prospect for any young player.

Calafiori’s versatility makes him very valuable to Arteta 

While predominantly a centre back, Calafiori’s versatility allows him to also operate effectively as a left-back, adding depth and flexibility to Arsenal’s defensive lineup. With established defenders like Gabriel Magalhaes and William Saliba anchoring the Gunners’ defence, Calafiori’s arrival would bolster their squad depth significantly. 

His ability to adapt to different defensive roles and contribute to build-up play from the back aligns with Arteta’s tactical philosophy, making him a very good fit for Arsenal’s energetic style of play. His signing is also evident that the Gunners want to have ample quality and backups across all positions on the pitch.

Moving to the Premier League presents its own set of challenges for any young player, but Calafiori’s experience in Serie A and exposure to European competition will have prepared him well or at least to some extent. His tactical awareness and defensive solidity will be very useful as Arsenal aims to compete at the highest levels domestically and on the European scene. 

Adjusting to the physicality and pace of the Premier League will be a major focal point for Calafiori, as he will look to make an immediate impact and secure a regular starting role under Mikel Arteta. 

Though he looks likely to operate more from the left-back position, than at centre back because of the intense competition already in centre back, he will hope to get his preferred role (centre back)at some point.

Arsenal still faces tough competition from other European giants.

Despite emerging interest from Serie A giants Juventus and London Premier League rivals Chelsea, Arsenal has emerged as Calafiori’s preferred destination. The attractive prospect of playing in the Champions League with Arsenal, coupled with the opportunity to work under Arteta’s guidance, has tilted the scales in favour of the North London club. Arsenal’s proactive approach in the transfer market, combined with their ambitious project under Arteta, has resonated with Calafiori and influenced his decision to choose the Emirates Stadium as his next footballing home.

Getting Calafiori’s signature will be a significant early success for Arsenal in the summer transfer window. His arrival not only strengthens their defensive capabilities but also strongly indicates their intent to compete for the title in the Premier League and other competitions. 

Arsenal fans will be eager to hear the official announcement of Calafiori’s signing, hopeful that his addition will contribute to a successful season ahead.

Conclusion 

Riccardo Calafiori is already generating huge interest all around European football. His brilliant performances for Bologna and in the Euros have been evident for all to see. The Gunners are in dire need of versatile legs in the defensive area. 

Last season, they were on the brink of winning the Premier League, but the lack of squad depth hindered their chances both in England and in the Uefa Champions League. Mikel Arteta will be desperate to get this deal over the line and look to bring in more signings to bolster his young squad.

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