Arsenal reportedly on the verge of signing Bologna defender Riccardo Calafiori, with sources claiming they have made a bid of €47 million. This would give the Gunners an advantage over PSG and Chelsea in the competition for the Italian centre defender. Juventus had previously shown interest in Calafiori but withdrew due to the exorbitant price and competition from other European teams.
The agreement between Arsenal and Calafiori may be completed this week.
Bologna’s technical director, Giovanni Sartori, recently stated that they’ll evaluate any significant offers for Calafiori. While the club’s president expressed a desire to retain the entire team, Arsenal’s proposal is very close to Bologna’s €50 million asking price. Notably, if the sale goes through, Bologna will need to allocate 40% of the fee to Basel, as stipulated in their agreement from a year ago
Calafiori, who impressed during Euro 2024, played a crucial role in helping Bologna qualify for the Champions League next season. His performances were a bright spot despite Italy’s disappointing exit from the competition. The 22-year-old defender has three years left on his Bologna deal.
Arsenal’s pursuit of Calafiori indicates their ambition to strengthen their defensive lineup for the upcoming season, and negotiations are progressing rapidly.
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