Arsenal is in advanced talks with Bologna for Riccardo Calafiori, aiming to strengthen their defensive lineup. The Gunners’ excellent relationship with Bologna, established during the Takehiro Tomiyasu deal, is facilitating the negotiations. Calafiori’s market value is currently estimated at €30 million, but the price tag for the transfer is set at around €50 million.
- Arsenal is preparing for more contacts with Bologna regarding Riccardo Calafiori.
- The strong relationship between Arsenal and Bologna is aiding the negotiations.
- Calafiori’s market value is estimated at €30 million, with a transfer price tag of €50 million.
Arsenal’s Interest in Calafiori Intensifies
According to a recent tweet by Fabrizio Romano, Arsenal is preparing for more contacts with Bologna regarding Riccardo Calafiori. The ongoing negotiations are backed by the strong relationship established during the Takehiro Tomiyasu deal. The price tag for Calafiori is set at around €50 million.
🔴⚪️ Arsenal are preparing for more contacts over Riccardo Calafiori deal on both player and club side.
Excellent relationship with Bologna after Tomiyasu deal, price tag around €50m. ⤵️
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano)
October 06, 2023
Riccardo Calafiori, a versatile defender born in Rome, Italy, has been a standout player for Bologna FC since joining on August 31, 2023. Standing at 1.88 meters, he plays primarily as a centre-back but is also capable of performing as a left midfielder or left-back. His current market value is estimated at €30 million, with a contract that runs until June 30, 2027.
Calafiori’s Career and Statistics
Calafiori has made significant strides in his career, having appeared in multiple top-tier leagues and competitions. His Serie A experience includes 43 appearances, contributing 2 goals and 1 assist. Additionally, he has played in the Super League, Primavera 1, and European competitions such as the Conference League and Europa League.
Career Highlights:
- Serie A: 43 appearances, 2 goals, 1 assist
- Super League: 26 appearances, 1 goal, 1 assist
- Primavera 1: 14 appearances, 2 goals, 4 assists
- Conference League: 11 appearances, 1 goal, 1 assist
- Europa League: 5 appearances, 1 goal
- National Team: 5 caps for Italy’s senior team
This impressive track record has caught the attention of several top European clubs, with Arsenal now leading the race to secure his signature. The Gunners’ proactive approach in the transfer market is evident, as they recently activated a €27 million buy option for another key player, highlighting their commitment to strengthening the squad.
Negotiations and Competitive Interest
Bologna initially planned to retain Calafiori, but interest from major clubs, including Juventus and several Premier League teams, has made this increasingly challenging. Juventus has had the player’s consent since May, but no agreement with Bologna has been finalized. Meanwhile, Arsenal’s excellent rapport with Bologna could give them an edge in the negotiations.
Transfer History:
- From AS Roma to Bologna FC 1909: August 31, 2023
- Transfer Fee: Not publicly disclosed
The potential transfer of Calafiori is heating up, with Arsenal’s interest representing just one facet of a broader tug-of-war involving top European clubs. The ongoing talks underscore the high demand for versatile defenders like Calafiori, who can fortify any team’s defensive lineup.
As negotiations progress, Arsenal fans and football enthusiasts alike will be watching closely to see if the Gunners can finalize this significant acquisition, bolstering their defensive options ahead of the new season.
For more insights into Arsenal’s transfer strategies, check out:
- Arsenal Poised to Snatch Promising Young Talent from Barcelona
- Arsenal’s €27 Million Deal: Young Talent Signs Long-Term Contract
