Arsenal signed Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna for £42 million

Arsenal has signed Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna for £42 million, fulfilling the Italian defender's decade-long dream. Calafiori joins on a five-year deal, while Emile Smith Rowe is set to leave for Fulham.

Zor

July 30, 2024

Arsenal Signed Riccardo Calafiori From Bologna For £42 Million — Photo Credit @Arsenal

Arsenal has completed the signing of Italian defender Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna for £42 million, a move that has been a decade in the making. The 22-year-old, who impressed for Italy during Euro 2024 and played a crucial role in Bologna’s fifth-place Serie A finish last season, has signed a five-year deal with the Gunners.

Calafiori expressed his excitement, stating it has been his dream since he was 12. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta praised Calafiori’s personality and skills, anticipating his contribution to the team’s defensive strength. Sporting director Edu emphasized the club’s strategy to sign young talent, highlighting Calafiori’s quality and experience.

Calafiori will wear the number 33 jersey and has already joined his new teammates in the US for pre-season preparations. The Italian defender credited his national teammate Jorginho for encouraging the move. Meanwhile, Emile Smith Rowe is set to join Fulham for £34 million, with Arsenal manager Arteta confirming the midfielder’s absence due to ongoing transfer activities.