Riccardo Calafiori says ‘yes’ to Arsenal as medical news emerges – sources
Arsenal have agreed personal terms with Bologna defender Riccardo Calafiori, sources have told Football Insider.
The 22-year-old Italy international has said ‘yes’ to Arsenal’s proposal and talks between the clubs are at an advanced stage.
Calafiori has packed his bags ready to complete a move to the Premier League giants and Arsenal have now put their medical team on stand-by as an agreement edges closer.
Football Insider revealed on July 7th that Bologna will hold out for their £42million valuation to be met after the defender’s impressive Euro 2024 performances.
The deal was held up due to Calariori’s former club Basel having a 50 per cent sell-on-clause.
Arsenal close in on Riccardo Calafiori deal
The 22-year-old defender was a standout at Euro 2024 despite Italy’s early exit. His absence due to suspension was keenly felt as the defending champions were eliminated by Switzerland in the last 16.
Although he started his career as a left-back, Calafiori was used as a centre-back during his time at Basel and has since progressed in that position after joining Bologna.
Calafiori made 33 appearances for Bologna last season, scoring twice and getting five assists, an impressive haul for a centre-back.
While Calafiori is considered as a progressive defender, he is also highly adept at negating the opposition. Last season he won 68.1 per cent of his tackles and made 194 recoveries in the Serie A.
Not only is he good with his feet, standing at 6ft 2in, Calafiori is also more than capable in the air having won 71.4 per cent of his aerial duels last campaign.
There are expected to be departures at Arsenal following the potential signing of Calafiori, Reiss Nelson is likely to leave after West Ham opened preliminary talks to sign the winger.
In other news, Arsenal midfielder could be set to leave the club as talks with Fulham begin.
For more Arsenal and exclusive news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.