Arsenal are inching closer to a deal for Bologna centre-back Riccardo Calafiori, according to Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio.
Arsenal have set their sights on Bologna centre-back Riccardo Calafiori as a key summer target, according to the latest rounds of Arsenal transfer news. The Gunners tabled an opening bid of £40 million for the 22-year-old, but Bologna have rebuffed the offer. The Italian club are holding out for at least £42.4 million, with a portion of any profit going to Calafiori’s former club Basel due to a sell-on clause.
Mikel Arteta’s men have yet to up their offer for Calafiori, but Gianluca Di Marzio suggests talks between Arsenal and the player are progressing well. Despite interest from Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain and Bayer Leverkusen, Arsenal’s project seems to hold more appeal for both Calafiori and Bologna. The Gunners are currently frontrunners to land the Italian defender from the Serie A club.
Arsenal Transfer News: Can the North London Side Land Calafiori?
Arsenal transfer news have mostly flown under the radar so far. Unlike previous years, there haven’t been many rumours swirling around potential signings.
This suggests the club might be conducting their business discreetly behind the scenes. Riccardo Calafiori seems to be a key target, and the Gunners are edging closer to a deal after their initial bid. They’ll likely return with an improved offer to meet Bologna’s valuation.
Chelsea are Arsenal’s main rivals for Calafiori’s signature, but the Gunners should hold some sway in negotiations given their Champions League qualification, a competition Chelsea won’t be participating in next season.
Calafiori’s versatility is a major asset – he’s comfortable playing on either side of central defence and can also slot in at left-back, making him a valuable addition for Arsenal.
Calafiori’s strengths lie in his ball-playing ability and aerial presence. He’s also a strong tackler with excellent ball-winning skills.
Moreover, he can contribute in attack with the occasional goal. Arsenal might be seeing him as a replacement for Jakub Kiwior, who is attracting interest for a possible return to Serie A this summer, with Juventus and AC Milan circling.
Arsenal Transfer Plans Explained
Fresh from their near miss in the league title race, Mikel Arteta’s men are hungry to go one better next season. To achieve this, they’re planning a squad overhaul, bringing in high-quality players across various positions to bolster both the starting XI and squad depth.
Fabrizio Romano, as quoted by The Sun, has shed light on the Gunners’ transfer plans…
“It depends on what kind of opportunities there will be, but a left-footed defender is something that Arsenal want to bring in and will probably bring in this summer. This is one of the priorities.”
“Something could happen in the midfield and offensive positions.
“Then a new back-up goalkeeper in case Aaron Ramsdale leaves the club.
“The planning is already clear, Arsenal are relaxed.”
Arsenal return to action with a friendly match against Bournemouth on July 25th. They, however, will not play competitively before August 17th, when they meet Wolves in their 24/25 Premier League season opener.
