Riccardo Calafiori Set for Arsenal Medical Ahead of Move
Italian defender Riccardo Calafiori is on the verge of completing his transfer to Arsenal, with the 22-year-old set to undergo a medical examination in London before joining the Gunners on their pre-season tour of the United States.
Calafiori, who has been a target for Arsenal for several weeks, is expected to arrive in London shortly to complete the first part of his medical tests. He will then travel to the United States to join Mikel Arteta’s squad for the final part of his medical and to link up with his new teammates.
The Bologna defender, who has been in Italy for his pre-season preparations, is set to sign a five-year deal with Arsenal worth €45 million, with €40 million of that fee being paid upfront. The deal is expected to be completed in the coming days, with Calafiori set to become Arsenal’s second major signing of the summer following the arrival of goalkeeper David Raya.
Calafiori, who has been capped by Italy at youth level, is highly regarded for his versatility and ability to play in multiple positions across the defense. He is expected to provide competition for the likes of Gabriel Magalhaes and Ben White in the Arsenal backline.
The Gunners, who finished second in the Premier League last season, are looking to strengthen their squad ahead of the new campaign as they aim to challenge for the title. The addition of Calafiori is seen as a significant step in that direction, with the Italian set to add depth and quality to the Arsenal defense.
Calafiori’s arrival is also expected to pave the way for further transfer activity at Arsenal, with the club set to focus on strengthening their midfield following the completion of the deal. The Gunners are reportedly in talks to sign Spain Euro 2024 star Fabian Ruiz from Paris Saint-Germain, with the midfielder seen as a potential replacement for the outgoing Emile Smith Rowe.
The Italian defender is set to join Arsenal on their pre-season tour of the United States, where the Gunners will face the likes of Manchester United and Liverpool. Calafiori’s arrival is expected to be a major boost for the club, with the defender set to provide competition and quality to the Arsenal backline.
