Arsenal have an agreement in place with Bologna for the signing of Italian defensive sensation Riccardo Calafiori.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Arsenal have struck an agreement with Bologna for the services of Riccardo Calafiori. The Italian international had already agreed to personal terms regarding a move to North London and with both clubs reaching a common ground, the transfer is expected to be completed very soon.
Calafiori’s rise at Bologna
Calafiori’s had an exceptional return to Serie A last season. While things didn’t work out for him at AS Roma, he revived himself at FC Basel and returned to the Spanish top flight with a move to Bologna last summer. In his debut season, he was involved in 33 matches and the centre-back even contributed towards seven goals (2 goals, 5 assists.
He was the go-to man under Thiago Motta and his performances helped him get called up for the Euro 2024. While Italy didn’t have the best of tournaments, Calafiori was one of their standout performers at the tournament.
Following his return from holidays, the 22-year-old made it quite clear to the Bologna board members that he wanted to leave in order to take the next step in his career. Arsenal were working hard in the background to convince the players to join them.
While there was significant interest in his services and reports suggested that he wanted to continue in Italy, the North London club managed to convince him about their project. The Gunners agreed personal terms with the player over a five-year deal.
Arsenal and Bologna agree terms for Calafiori transfer
Once they had the green signal from the player, Arsenal were involved in intense negotiations with Bologna. After a major breakthrough, they finally have an agreement in place with the Italian outfit. The North London club will pay €40 million upfront with another €5 million in add-ons. The Serie A outfit have also managed to secure a sell-on clause.
Everything is in place for the transfer to be completed with just one final step to go. FC Basel who have a 50% sell-on clause will now agree on payment terms with Bologna before the transfer moves ahead.
Mikel Arteta is keen on adding another top-quality centre-back to his ranks and Calafiori seems to be an ideal fit for them. The Arsenal manager wants to further strengthen his rotation at the back and have more competition for a place in his starting XI. The 22-year-old will surely help his cause and he will only get better with time.
