Arsenal must offer better terms to beat Chelsea to the signature of 22-year-old Bologna Riccardo Calafiori.
Arsenal have made a significant move in the summer transfer window, forcefully entering the race to sign Bologna’s Riccardo Calafiori. The Gunners have approached the Serie A side with a substantial offer for the 22-year-old defender. This interest is further corroborated by Corriere dello Sport via Sport Witness, which reports that Arsenal have submitted a ‘monstrous proposal’ of €47 million for Calafiori’s services.
Despite the impressive offer, Bologna remain unconvinced and are holding out for more money. The Italian club’s starting request is around €50 million, largely because they must pay 40% of the profit from Calafiori’s sale to his former club, FC Basel. This financial obligation has made Bologna keen on maximizing the transfer fee.
Chelsea also remain keen on Riccardo Calafiori
The Gunners’ arch-rivals, Chelsea have also shown interest in Calafiori, adding another layer of competition for his signature. The Serie A outfit are pleased with the interest from both Premier League giants, hoping it will spark an auction that drives up the defender’s price. This strategic move aims to ensure Bologna meet their financial targets, especially given the significant percentage of the profit that will go to FC Basel.
Bologna have already rejected Arsenal’s initial €47 million offer, indicating they are firm on their valuation of the young centre-back. They are willing to negotiate, but only if Arsenal return with an improved bid or if Chelsea step up their pursuit. This situation puts pressure on both English clubs to either meet or exceed Bologna’s €50 million asking price to secure Calafiori’s transfer.
The final piece of the puzzle?
For Arsenal, securing Calafiori would be a strategic addition to their defence, aligning with Mikel Arteta’s vision of strengthening the squad with young and talented players. The Gunners have twice fallen short in the last two years, with the left-back spot a point of concern. While Gabriel Magalhaes and William Saliba form their first-choice centre-back duo, Calafiori will offer the Gunners a better option on the left ahead of the inconsistent Oleksandr Zinchenko.
With Ben White on the other flank, it will give Arsenal a reliable back four to compete with. Ultimately, securing Calafiori would not only strengthen Arsenal’s defence but also signal their intent to compete at the highest level in the Premier League and beyond.
