Calafiori’s Dream Move to Arsenal Nears Completion

Italian defender Riccardo Calafiori is on the brink of fulfilling his dream of joining Arsenal after a five-year deal was agreed upon between the Gunners and Bologna.

Upon returning from his holiday Calafiori made it clear to Bologna’s board that he wanted to move to north London.

The two clubs have agreed on a $49 million (approx £38 million) transfer fee which includes $5.4 million in add-ons and a sell-on clause. The final step is securing Basel and Bologna’s agreement on the 50% sell-on payment terms before the move is officially confirmed.

🔴⚪️ Riccardo Calafiori has been clear with Bologna board as soon as he returned from holiday.

The Italian defender asked to leave and make his dream true, after five year deal agreed with Arsenal.

Arsenal and Bologna have agreed on terms, waiting for final steps. 🏁 pic.twitter.com/mLochNmxoz

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 20, 2024

The 22-year-old Calafiori who can play both centre-back and left-back would bring valuable flexibility to Mikel Arteta’s squad.

His addition could see him competing for the left-back position alongside Oleksandr Zinchenko and Jurriën Timber or rotating at centre-back with Gabriel and William Saliba.

Calafiori made 30 appearances for Bologna scoring two goals and providing five assists last season which helped them secure a Champions League spot.