Arsenal’s pursuit of Riccardo Calafiori is advancing well, with the club close to finalizing the transfer fee. Alessandro Lucci, Calafiori’s agent, has played a crucial role in the negotiations. Arsenal is ahead of competitors like Bayer Leverkusen, Chelsea, and Juventus in the race to sign the talented defender, valued at €45 million (£38m/$49m).
Arsenal has presented a long-term vision that appeals to Calafiori more than the offers from other clubs. Since his transfer from Basel last year, Calafiori has become a key player for Bologna. He made his national team debut in early June and played in all three of Italy’s Euro 2024 group stage matches, being notably missed during their last-16 loss to Switzerland last week.
In a recent interview with Radio Sportiva, reported by TMW, Walter Sabatini expressed his concerns about Serie A losing a player of Calafiori’s caliber.
“It’s a disaster when strong, young players like him leave our league,” Sabatini said. “€45 million as a valuation is a huge sum but the defenders are paid even more. I think it’s the minimum for someone like him: left-footed, physically imposing, authoritative and with personality in the game.”
“Let’s remember what he did in the 96th minute against Croatia: he came out with the ball at his feet, ran forty meters, took on the defence and passed the ball. These are plays you only do if you have quality and courage and the courage to take risks and to execute the action is something only great players can do.”
For Arsenal, acquiring Calafiori is a strategic investment in their defensive line. The club’s focus on signing young, talented players aligns with their long-term objectives of building a strong and competitive squad. The Italian defender could become the Gunners’ first summer signing in what Mikel Arteta has promised will be an “aggressive” transfer window for the North London club.
