In order to sell Riccardo Calafiori to Arsenal this summer, Bologna is reportedly still looking for additional funding—though not directly from the Gunners.
With 33 appearances in all competitions, Calafiori had a stellar debut season with Bologna, helping the team finish fifth in Serie A and earn a Champions League spot. Last summer, he moved to Bologna from Basel, Switzerland, with a 50% sell-on clause in the contract.
Bologna has not yet completed the transfer, despite reports 12 days ago that a deal for Arsenal to sign Calafiori was anticipated within 24 to 48 hours. Fans of Arsenal have been reassured by transfer expert Fabrizio Romano that the deal is still on track, with Romano highlighting the Italy international’s eagerness to join the Premier League team after his impressive performance at Euro 2024.
“Arsenal have the match point to sign Riccardo Calafiori, and the player is obsessed with the opportunity to go to Arsenal,” Romano said on his YouTube channel. He adores the concept, the endeavor, and the opportunity to train with such a renowned coach as Mikel Arteta.
Bologna inquired about Arsenal defender Jakub Kiwior during the Calafiori negotiations, but the Polish defender is not interested in the transfer. Kiwior may leave Arsenal on loan with a buyout requirement, Romano said on X.
Calafiori is currently getting ready for preseason training, which will take place later this month, according to Corriere dello Sport via Sport Witness. Although Bologna and Arsenal have come to a workable agreement, the transfer is being held up by Basel’s 50% sell-on clause.
It has been reported that Bologna is attempting to exert pressure on Basel to reduce their portion of the sell-on clause in order to obtain a higher portion of the transfer fee from Arsenal. But Basel is a hard man to convince, and if Basel refuses to lower their percentage, Bologna may demand more money from Arsenal.
Calafiori has stated his desire to join Arsenal despite the delay, but Bologna will only allow him to depart if their financial demands are satisfied.
