Riccardo Calafiori‘s transfer to Arsenal is on the brink of completion, with the Italian defender expected to officially join the Gunners “in a few hours,” according to reports from Bologna.
The deal, reportedly worth €45 million plus €5 million in bonuses, will be the highest transfer fee in Bologna’s history. Calafiori is set to sign a five-year contract with Arsenal, earning €4 million per season (although some reports claim it is a four-year deal).
The 22-year-old defender, who enjoyed a breakout season with Bologna last year, helping them secure Champions League qualification for the first time in six decades, has been a top target for Arsenal throughout the summer transfer window. His versatility, capable of playing both at centre-back and left-back, makes him a valuable addition to Mikel Arteta‘s squad.
The finalisation of the deal was delayed due to bureaucratic issues and negotiations regarding the sell-on clause with Calafiori’s former club, Basel. However, these issues have now been resolved, paving the way for the transfer to be completed imminently.
Calafiori is expected to travel to London on Friday to finalise the move and join his new teammates. He could potentially feature in Arsenal‘s upcoming pre-season friendlies against Manchester United and Liverpool in the United States.
The Italian international’s arrival at the Emirates Stadium is seen as a major coup for Arsenal, who have beaten out several other top European clubs for his signature. Calafiori’s signing also signals Arsenal‘s intent to strengthen their defence and compete for major honours in the upcoming season.
While Arsenal fans celebrate the imminent arrival of Calafiori, Bologna are already looking to reinvest the transfer fee. They are reportedly close to signing veteran German defender Mats Hummels from Borussia Dortmund.
With Calafiori’s transfer to Arsenal all but confirmed, the focus now shifts to how he will adapt to the Premier League and the role he will play in Mikel Arteta‘s tactical setup.