Arsenal has successfully reached an agreement with Bologna for the transfer of defender Riccardo Calafiori, despite earlier reports indicating that the transfer had encountered difficulties. David Ornstein claims that the Gunners were able to complete the transaction, which represents a big addition to their team.
Arsenal Signs Riccardo Calafiori, a Key Defensive Player
Calafiori, a standout defender for Bologna, is set to move to Arsenal in a deal valued at £33.7 million, with an additional £4.2 million in bonuses and a sell-on clause. Notwithstanding some early differences over the transfer fee, the talks were successfully completed, with Alessandro Lucci, the player’s agent, being instrumental in the last stages. The agreement is largely complete, pending Calafiori’s medical examination, which is expected to finalize the transfer.
According to the agreement, Basel, Calafiori’s previous team, which saw his potential early on and included a sell-on clause in his original transfer to Bologna, will receive 50% of the transfer fee.
Calafiori, who is 22 years old, is viewed as the perfect answer to Arsenal’s left-back problems. Known for his defensive and passing prowess, he is expected to establish himself as a starter for the team, maybe ahead of more established players like Oleksandr Zinchenko and Jakub Kiwior.
Calafiori Is Excited to Work with Mikel Arteta
Calafiori was apparently impressed following his talks with Mikel Arteta, the manager of Arsenal, which made the process of negotiating personal terms easier. It is anticipated that the player will agree to a five-year deal worth £3.3 million per year, which will expire in June 2029.
Calafiori had other options, but he chose Arsenal over teams like Chelsea, according to Italian transfer expert Gianluca Di Marzio, underscoring his desire to join the North London team in an interview with Sky Sports. “If they get Calafiori, they will get the ideal Premier League defender,” said Di Marzio. His desire is Arsenal. All he could think of was Arsenal. The player refused to be moved by Chelsea, stating that he preferred Arsenal.
The signing of Calafiori was not easy, as Chelsea’s interest was not considered a serious threat, but Juventus’s was. Bologna’s management was reluctant to sell Calafiori to a domestic rival, especially considering their history of animosity toward Juventus. Arsenal supporters are happy about the acquisition, as Calafiori is considered the “perfect defender” who will add strength to an already strong defense.
