Arsenal is set to complete the acquisition of Riccardo Calafiori, a talented defender from Bologna, by next week. Sports journalist Fabrizio Romano reports that Arsenal has recently conducted further negotiations with Bologna to finalize the transfer. The club from North London has already agreed on terms with both Calafiori and Bologna, with the deal’s formalities expected to be concluded soon.
Calafiori, a product of AS Roma’s youth system, has seen a notable rise over the past year. During his first full season with Bologna after returning to Serie A, he appeared in 33 matches and scored seven goals. His consistent performances earned him a place in the Italian national team for Euro 2024, despite a disappointing tournament for the squad. Calafiori’s strong performances have drawn interest from several leading European teams.
Upon returning from vacation, the 22-year-old defender expressed to Bologna’s management his intention to join a larger club. While initial reports indicated he might remain in Italy, Calafiori is now set to move to Arsenal in the Premier League.
Arsenal has been actively working to secure Calafiori’s transfer. The club has agreed on a five-year contract with the player and has settled on a transfer fee with Bologna, amounting to €40 million plus an additional €5 million in performance-related bonuses. Bologna has also secured a sell-on clause for Calafiori, who still has three years left on his contract with them.
Although the main terms of the transfer are agreed upon, a few minor details remain, including finalizing the payment structure for the sell-on clause with Calafiori’s previous club, FC Basel. The player’s medical examination and final paperwork are expected to be completed next week, after which Calafiori will officially join Arsenal.
