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Top European Clubs Eye Bologna’s Versatile Defender: Transfer Talks Heat Up

Riccardo Calafiori of Italy during UEFA Euro 2024 - Italy training session, UEFA European Football Championship in Iserlhon, Germany, June 26 2024
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Bologna FC’s director Giovanni Sartori confirms openness to proposals for Riccardo Calafiori. Calafiori, a versatile defender, is under contract with Bologna until 2027. Interest from top European clubs could see Calafiori leave Bologna.

  • Bologna is open to considering offers for Riccardo Calafiori.
  • Calafiori’s contract with Bologna runs until June 30, 2027.
  • Interest from top European clubs, including Juventus and Premier League teams, is growing.

Bologna’s Pragmatic Approach to Calafiori’s Future

Giovanni Sartori, the director of Bologna FC, has openly stated the club’s willingness to entertain offers for their promising young defender Riccardo Calafiori. Sartori’s statement reflects a realistic approach to managing the club’s roster and future prospects.

“I can confirm that we will consider proposals for Riccardo Calafiori. It’d be fantastic to keep him but we have to be realistic,” said Sartori, acknowledging the potential for significant interest from clubs abroad.


Calafiori, who has a contract with Bologna until June 30, 2027, has been an integral part of the team since joining on August 31, 2023. His current market value stands at €30 million, making him a valuable asset for the club.

Calafiori’s Versatile Career

Riccardo Calafiori, born on May 19, 2002, in Rome, Italy, is a versatile defender who can play as a centre-back, left midfielder, or left-back. Standing at 1.88 meters, Calafiori has demonstrated his skills across various leagues and competitions.

Career Statistics:

  • Serie A: 43 appearances, 2 goals, 1 assist
  • Super League: 26 appearances, 1 goal, 1 assist
  • Primavera 1: 14 appearances, 2 goals, 1 assist
  • Conference League: 11 appearances, 1 goal, 1 assist
  • Europa League: 5 appearances
  • Coppa Primavera: 3 appearances
  • Swiss Cup: 3 appearances, 1 goal
  • Italy Cup: 3 appearances
  • Under 17 – Finals: 2 appearances
  • Supercoppa U17: 1 appearance
  • UEFA Youth League: 1 appearance
  • UCL Qualifiers: 1 appearance

Calafiori has also represented Italy at multiple youth levels, accumulating caps and goals across various age groups, including the Italy National Team, U21, U20, U19, U17, U16, and U15 teams.

Growing Interest from Top Clubs

The potential departure of Calafiori is likely to attract attention from several top European clubs. Reports indicate that Juventus and multiple Premier League teams are showing interest in the young defender. Bologna had initially planned to retain Calafiori, but the increasing interest and potential lucrative offers could make it challenging for the club to keep him.

For example, an article on Bologna Defender Caught in Tug-of-War Between Juventus and Premier League Giants discusses the growing interest and the potential for big proposals from top European clubs.

In this context, Sartori’s comments underscore Bologna’s pragmatic stance. “In case of a good proposal, we will discuss that; and we anticipate clubs from abroad to move,” he added, signaling the club’s preparedness for potential negotiations.

As the summer transfer window approaches, Calafiori’s future remains a topic of keen interest, with Bologna’s openness to discussions likely to spur further speculation and potential bids from interested clubs.

Sources:

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