Arsenal close to signing deal with Chelsea target Riccardo Calafiori
Arsenal are set to seal the signing of Chelsea target, Riccardo Calafiori, from Italian club Bologna. The London clubs have been keen on acquiring the signature of the Italian international for the past few weeks. The North London club has advanced by offering a €55 million deal for the player, per Corrieredibologna.
The departure of Brazilian international Thiago Silva from Chelsea has put the West London club’s defence in a dilemma. Even with the signing of Tosin Adarabioyo from Fulham, Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca needs to find a strong defender who can provide consistent performances in the Chelsea backline.
Chelsea had included the 22-year-old Calafiori on their potential targets list for the summer. The Italian defender impressed the football world with his stellar performances in Euro 2024 for his national side, despite Italy exiting the tournament in the Round of 16. Calafiori started all three group matches for the Azzurri and provided a crucial assist in the match against Croatia. He missed the knockout match against Switzerland due to suspension, and Switzerland secured a spot in the last eight by winning the match. His absence was a huge blow for Luciano Spalletti’s side and shattered their dreams of retaining the Euro title.
The AS Roma academy graduate joined Bologna last summer, and with his ten-month journey with the club, he became one of the top defenders in Serie A. He has appeared in 30 games and scored two goals and five assists for the Italian club. His key performance in Bologna’s backline has helped the club to finish fifth in the league table and helped them to qualify for Champions League after 50 years. The Italian international has a contract until 2027 with Bologna, and his latest performance in the Euro campaign has increased his value in the transfer market.
Many top European clubs, including Chelsea, Real Madrid, PSG, and Bayer Leverkusen, showed interest in the defender, but the Gunners advanced in the race by making a deal worth €55 million. Maresca had a strong interest in the defender, seeing him as a suitable fit for his game plan.
The Italian gaffer has new plans for the club ahead of the new season. Maresca is a tactician who gives equal importance to both defensive and offensive styles. Calafiori would be an ideal option for the West London club to reinforce the squad. His aggressive style of football and defensive awareness can help the club prevent goals in the upcoming season. The versatility of the defender is also one of the key attributes that attracted the Italian manager.
