Arsenal are pursuing a deal for Bologna defender Riccardo Calafiori, and now appear to be the front-runner for his signature.
The defender impressed at Euro 2024 with Italy, after an outstanding season at Serie A side Bologna, and has attracted interest from several clubs.
Arsenal are interested in Calafiori given his profile as a left-footed defender who can play on the flanks or in the centre, whilst adding quality on the ball.
Juventus were also keen, and many at Arsenal may have feared another situation where an Italian-based target such as Dusan Vlahovic or Manuel Locatelli prefers a switch to the Serie A giants. However, they have seemingly managed to bypass this problem for Calafiori.
Takehiro Tomiyasu has helped Arsenal pursuit of Riccardo Calafiori
Calafiori is not the first Bologna player Mikel Arteta has targeted, as the Spaniard signed Takehiro Tomiyasu from the Italian side in 2021.
Fabrizio Romano has now revealed that Arsenal and Bologna’s good relationship from the Tomiyasu deal has helped them in negotiations for Calafiori.
“Arsenal are preparing for more contacts over Riccardo Calafiori deal on both player and club side. Excellent relationship with Bologna after Tomiyasu deal,” he posted on X.
Takehiro Tomiyasu was a successful signing from Bologna
Although he has suffered with injury problems, Tomiyasu has been a successful signing from Bologna, having joined in a surprise deal on transfer deadline day in the summer of 2021.
The Japan International was a smart acquisition by Mikel Arteta, given his ability to play across the back four, and his combination of speed and intelligence.
Tomiyasu was described as “world-class” by Ben White, and the pair will hope Calafiori can also be a strong addition to their defensive unit.
If Calafiori can perform to a similar level as Tomiyasu, without the injury problems, then he will be an excellent addition for Arsenal next season.
Arsenal chasing Riccardo Calafiori and mystery German target as England face Switzerland
In this week’s episode, Will Jones and Rahul Lakhani discussed England’s recent victory over Slovakia at the European Championships. With Arsenal players Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka featuring again, Man City star Kyle Walker came under scrutiny.
With Arsenal also linked to Bologna defender Riccardo Calafiori, the pair explained why the Italy star could be the perfect fit for Mikel Arteta. Recent social media rumours surrounding a potential Arsenal move for a Germany International were also addressed, with some candidates named.
