Arsenal are reportedly interested in signing 22-year-old Bologna defender Riccardo Calafiori in the summer transfer window.
According to Give Me Sport, Arsenal have now enquired about 22-year-old Italian international defender Riccardo Calafiori, who is on the radar of Chelsea as well.
Calafiori is regarded as one of the finest young defensive prospects in European football right now, and he could develop into a key player for Arsenal in the long term. The Italian international could form a solid partnership with William Saliba at the heart of the Arsenal defence. He is versatile enough to operate as a left-back as well.
Arsenal need to add more quality to their squad to beat Manchester City to the title, and signing an elite young talent like Calafiori could prove to be the wise decision. Meanwhile, Chelsea are looking to improve their defensive unit as well. It will be interesting to see if they come forward with an offer for the Italian defender in the coming weeks.
Thiago Silva left the club upon the expiry of his contract, and the Brazilian defender will have to be replaced adequately. Chelsea looked vulnerable defensively last season and the need to improve in that department.
Signing the Italian international could prove to be a step in the right direction. Both clubs have the financial muscle to get the deal done and it remains to be seen where the 22-year-old defender ends up. He has been linked with Liverpool as well.
Riccardo Calafiori could fancy Premier League move
The opportunity to join clubs like Arsenal or Chelsea could be an attractive option for the 22-year-old and he will certainly fancy his chances of doing well in the Premier League. It would be a major step up in his career, and he would get to showcase his qualities at a high level.
The Italian will probably want to join a competitive club capable of challenging for major trophies. So, Arsenal could have an advantage. The Gunners are better placed to compete for major trophies right now, and they have managed to push for the league title in the last two seasons. They will be able to offer him UEFA Champions League football as well.
