After delays in the last few weeks, Arsenal are finally closing in on a deal to sign Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna.
The defender shone with Italy at Euro 2024 despite their disappointing campaign overall, and is seen by Mikel Arteta as a player who could upgrade his options at left-back.
Arsenal agreed personal terms with Calafiori in the past few weeks, but there were delays over a deal amid problems with the 50% sell-on clause Basel inserted into his contract, as well as the refusal of Jakub Kiwior to potentially go in the other direction.
However, Arsenal have finally reached a breakthrough, and it now appears that a deal is near completion.
Arsenal closing in on Riccardo Calafiori transfer
Fabrizio Romano has now revealed that Arsenal are closing in on a deal to sign Calafiori after a breakthrough in negotiations with Bologna.
“Understand Arsenal are now close to reach total agreement with Bologna for Riccardo Calafiori! Positive talks took place behind the scenes with player’s agent Alessandro Lucci on it,” he posted on X.
“Arsenal now confident to get it done. Personal terms remain agreed, deal until June 2029.”
Riccardo Calafiori could join Arsenal USA pre-season tour
Arsenal are set to travel to the USA for their pre-season tour on July 21st with the bulk of the squad in tow, but Calafiori is unlikely to see his deal completed in time to join the initial cohort.
However, several Euro 2024 stars including Kai Havertz will join the tour, but on a later date, and if Calafiori’s deal is completed in the coming days, he could fly out to join Arteta and his squad alongside these players.
Settling in during pre-season will be crucial for Calafiori as he aims to beat Takehiro Tomiyasu and Jurrien Timber to a starting spot at left-back, whilst Oleksandr Zinchenko and Kiwior could leave.
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