Arsenal reportedly have an agreement on personal terms with Riccardo Calafiori as a deal with Bologna is yet to materialise.
According to Sports Zone, Riccardo Calafiori has agreed on personal terms with Arsenal ahead of a possible move in the coming days. The Gunners have accelerated their chase of the 22-year-old Chelsea target, with Juventus seemingly out of the running for the Italian international.
Riccardo Calafiori agrees Arsenal terms
Riccardo Calagiori has become a hot topic of discussion ahead of the last few days, as he seems destined to leave Bologna this summer. Juventus were considered overwhelming favourites to sign him as reports suggested the Italian international preferred to stay put in Serie A after an exceptional season.
In the days since Italy’s elimination from the Euros, Arsenal and Chelsea accelerated their pursuit of the defender, with both clubs considered as front runners for the 22-year-old. The Gunners may have taken a big step towards him as Calafiori has reportedly agreed on personal terms with the north London side.
Further reports have stated Arsenal may have offered €47 million to sign him, with Bologna demanding more for the versatile defender. Juventus may have bowed out of the race altogether, for they may not be able to match Bologna’s asking price, which could very well exceed the €50 million mark. At the same time, the Bianconeri have reportedly only offered half that sum.
Bologna are encouraging Premier League bids to get the best out of the deal, as they would also owe 50% of any sale to Swiss side FC Basel. Hence, they will want to maximise the sale and might prefer a deal with one of the Premier League sides, as Arsenal now appear like the front runners.
Will Arsenal sign Calafiori?
Mikel Arteta has reportedly approved of Calafiori becoming their newest defender, as the Spanish manager seeks more security and a different profile in the left-back role. The Gunners are wary of Chelsea’s interest and their potential to hijack a deal late on, but from a sporting side, the Gunners are confident of signing Calafiori.
Credible sources claim the Gunners have offered significant money to Bologna and that the deal might be very close to completion if Arsenal’s way. Hence, there’s a big chance for fans to see the 22-year-old Italian international starting alongside William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhaes, and Ben White in what may look like a formidable back line.
