Arsenal is nearing a total agreement with Bologna for Riccardo Calafiori. The transfer fee is expected to be around €42m, complicated by a 50% sell-on clause. Liverpool also shows interest amid Arsenal’s negotiation hurdles.
- Arsenal is negotiating a transfer fee of around €42m for Riccardo Calafiori.
- The deal is complicated by a 50% sell-on clause with Basel.
- Liverpool has also shown interest in Calafiori.
Arsenal’s Transfer Strategy
Arsenal’s manager, Mikel Arteta, is keen on strengthening the defense, and Riccardo Calafiori has emerged as a primary target. The club aims to finalize the deal before the new season kicks off to ensure squad depth for multiple competitions. Calafiori’s performances for Italy in EURO 2024 have significantly raised his market value, which has led Bologna to increase their asking price from Arsenal’s initial valuation of €30-35m to €50m.
RT @FabrizioRomano: 🚨🔴⚪️ Understand Arsenal are now close to reach total agreement with Bologna for Riccardo Calafiori!
Positive talks too…
pic.twitter.com— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano)
September 28, 2023
Bologna’s Stance on the Transfer
Bologna is leveraging Calafiori’s impressive performances and interest from top clubs to secure the best deal, especially considering the 50% sell-on clause with Basel. The negotiations have been positive, with Bologna pushing for a higher fee due to this clause. Arsenal is attempting to negotiate a lower fee to finalize the transfer around €42m.
The potential transfer has been influenced by Arsenal’s needs and Bologna’s financial considerations, making the negotiations complex but critical for both clubs.
Background on Riccardo Calafiori
Player Profile:
- Name: Riccardo Calafiori
- Date of Birth: May 19, 2002
- Nationality: Italian
- Position: Centre-Back
- Current Club: Bologna FC 1909
- Market Value: €30.00m (as of 2024)
Career Statistics:
- Appearances for Bologna (2023-2024): 34
- Goals: 2
- Assists: 3
- Clean Sheets: 10
- Yellow Cards: 5
- Red Cards: 0
Previous Transfers:
- From AS Roma to FC Basel (2022): €2.5m
- From FC Basel to Bologna FC 1909 (2023): €4m
Calafiori’s career trajectory from AS Roma to Basel, and subsequently to Bologna, showcases his growth and increasing market value, making him an attractive addition to Arsenal’s squad.
Additional Context and Related Transfers
Liverpool has also shown interest in Calafiori, especially as Arsenal’s negotiations have faced complications. Bologna’s strong negotiating position stems from the player’s standout performances and multiple clubs’ interest.
For more details on the ongoing transfer talks and player profiles, readers can explore the following articles:
- Arsenal and Bologna in Transfer Talks: Two Key Players Could Be on the Move
- Football London – Arsenal get Riccardo Calafiori transfer timeline
- Football Transfers – R. Calafiori Transfer News, History, Market Value & Career Stats
The outcome of these negotiations will be crucial for both Arsenal and Bologna, with significant implications for their respective strategies and upcoming seasons.
