Arsenal have announced the signing of Italian defender Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna, in a deal worth up to £42 million, including add-ons. The 22-year-old, who impressed at Euro 2024 by starting in all three of Italy’s group stage matches, has committed to a five-year contract with the Gunners.
Calafiori, a versatile player capable of operating as a central defender or left-back, expressed his enthusiasm about the move. “I’m really happy to be here,” he said upon joining his new team in Philadelphia. “I waited a lot. I hope we are going to do something great this season.”
Having spent just one season with Bologna, Calafiori’s impact was significant. He made 30 appearances in Serie A, contributing two goals and five assists, and played a key role in helping the team secure a fifth-place finish and a spot in the Champions League. His performances earned him the Serie A Player of the Month award in May, and he has recently made his mark on the international stage, earning five caps for Italy this summer.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta lauded Calafiori as a “great signing,” emphasizing the defender’s character and skill set. “Riccardo is a big personality and character, with specific skills which will make us stronger as we push to win major trophies,” Arteta stated.
“He has already shown great development in recent seasons with his performances for both Bologna and Italy, with his progression and development in the past year being really impressive. We’re looking forward to working with Riccardo, integrating him into the squad, and supporting him in the years to come.”
Calafiori’s football journey began with Roma, where he made his senior debut in 2020. He then had a loan stint at Genoa before moving to Basel in 2022. Bologna acquired him for £3.3 million after a season in Switzerland, where he transitioned from his initial role as a left-back to primarily playing as a central defender under the guidance of then-coach Thiago Motta. His adaptability and growth have been notable, with Juventus and Chelsea among the clubs previously linked to him.
At Arsenal, Calafiori is expected to provide competition for centre-back Gabriel and left-back Oleksandr Zinchenko. His ability to cover multiple positions will be a valuable asset for Arteta as the team aims to end their 21-year wait for a Premier League title, following two consecutive second-place finishes.
In related transfer news, Arsenal are set to offload midfielder Emile Smith Rowe to Fulham. The deal is reported to be worth an initial £27 million, with an additional £7 million in potential add-ons. Smith Rowe’s departure underscores the club’s commitment to restructuring and strengthening their squad as they prepare for the upcoming season.
With Calafiori’s arrival, Arsenal fans will be hopeful that the Italian defender’s versatility and talent can help propel the team to new heights in their pursuit of silverware.
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