Arsenal’s board and manager Mikel Arteta hold a significant appreciation for Riccardo Calafiori, according to Fabrizio Romano.
The Italian defender, who currently plays for Bologna, has caught the eye of several top clubs, including Juventus. However, Bologna are poised to make any potential transfer to Juventus challenging, a situation that could work in Arsenal’s favour as they seek to strengthen their defensive options.
Arsenal are on the lookout for a left-back with the attributes of a central defender, and Calafiori seems to fit this requirement perfectly. He has now been linked to the club by a number of news outlets.
His performances for Italy at Euro 2024 have been highly impressive, showcasing his defensive solidity combined with an ability to advance forward and carry the ball. This blend of skills makes him an attractive prospect for Arteta’s squad, which values technical prowess and versatility in its players.
The Gunners’ interest in Calafiori aligns with their strategic objectives for the summer transfer window. As they aim to build a robust team capable of competing at the highest level, adding a player of Calafiori’s calibre could provide the defensive stability and flexibility they need. His technical abilities and forward-thinking approach on the pitch would complement Arsenal’s style of play, making him a valuable addition to the team.
Now Italy are out of Euro 2024, negotiations are expected to advance, with Calafiori keen ot establish where he will be playing next season.
Bologna’s stance on making any transfer to Juventus difficult adds a layer of complexity to the situation.
This resistance could deter Juventus and create a more favourable scenario for Arsenal to pursue the defender.
With the North London club’s clear interest and Bologna’s likely reluctance to strengthen a domestic rival, the path for Calafiori to the Emirates could become more straightforward, especially after the two clubs held successful and swift negotiations over the sale of Takehiro Tomiyasu in the recent past.