Arsenal Complete Signing of Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna

Arsenal have officially completed the signing of Italian defender Riccardo Calafiori from Serie A side Bologna. The 22-year-old has put pen to paper on a long-term contract with the Gunners after successfully completing his medical and signing the paperwork.

Calafiori’s move to the Emirates Stadium is worth an initial €40 million, with a further €5 million in add-ons. The transfer fee is split between Bologna and Calafiori’s former club FC Basel, with the Swiss side receiving 50% of the profit generated from the deal.

The Italy international, who starred for his country at Euro 2024, is expected to slot straight into Mikel Arteta’s starting XI at left-back, where he is likely to invert in possession to help create overloads in the middle of the park.

Riccardo Calafiori Completes Medical In Arsenal’s Move

Calafiori’s arrival comes after a summer of negotiations between Arsenal and Bologna, with the deal finally being completed after weeks of talks. The defender had initially consented to a move to Juventus, but the deal collapsed when the Bianconeri poached Bologna boss Motta.

The Gunners had been keen to strengthen the left side of their backline, but didn’t view Calafiori as a priority target until he began running the show for Italy at Euro 2024. The 22-year-old really burst onto the scene with Bologna last season, playing a crucial role in helping them secure a historic qualification for the 2024/25 Champions League.

Calafiori is set to join up with his new Arsenal teammates in the United States, where the Gunners are currently on their pre-season tour. The Italian will be hoping to make an immediate impact at the Emirates Stadium as Mikel Arteta’s side look to mount a title challenge in the upcoming season.

With the signing of Calafiori, Arsenal have landed a major coup and secured the services of one of Europe’s most promising young defenders. The Gunners will be hoping that the Italian can help them reach new heights in the coming years.