Arsenal could return with an improved €55 million offer for Riccardo Calafiori, which could seal the deal with Bologna.
According to Italian media via Sport Witness, Arsenal are set to make an improved bid worth €55 million for Riccardo Calafiori, which could potentially seal the deal with Bologna. The Italian side have been demanding at least €50 million or more for the defender, with the Gunners in pole position for the centre-back.
Arsenal to make new bid for Riccardo Calafiori
Mikel Arteta has reportedly approved the idea of bringing Riccardo Calafiori this summer to strengthen his defence. The Gunners had the meanest defence in the Premier League, and the potential arrival of the Italian international could further bolster their ranks at the back.
The Gunners reportedly saw a €47 million bid rejected for the defender, although sources claimed it was extremely close to what Bologna wanted. Many other outlets insisted that €50 million would seal the deal. However, the latest on the defender’s transfer saga indicates that Arsenal is set to table an improved offer worth €55 million, which should potentially conclude with the 22-year-old’s arrival.
Calafiori may have agreed on personal terms with the Gunners, with the report further explaining that the 22-year-old is convinced by the project proposal and the salary package. The Italian international might have signed a €3.5 million-a-season, five-year contract, as Arsenal seems very close to bringing him to the Emirates.
There’s also Chelsea’s presence in the race, as the Blues were expected to make an offer. They could still rival their London rivals with a counter bid, though sources believe Arsenal is in pole position and could end this saga with that improved €55 million bid.
Calafiori’s arrival could see others leave
Calafiori is certainly an upgrade over someone like Jakub Kiwior, as his arrival could see the Polish international depart for a new adventure. There’s certainly a market for the defender, with a return to Italy mooted about as a big possibility.
Meanwhile, Arsenal would reporteldy prefer to keep Kiwior and might entertain offers for Oleksandr Zinchenko instead. However, the Ukranian does not have too many clubs keeping tabs, although that could change as the summer window progresses. Hence, at least one of those two defenders might ponder a departure should the 22-year-old Calafiori arrive at the Emirates.
