Calafiori Snubs Chelsea, Accepts Arsenal Offer

In a surprising turn of events, Italian defender Riccardo Calafiori has reportedly chosen Arsenal over Chelsea, despite interest from the Blues. The 22-year-old Bologna center-back, who impressed for Italy at Euro 2024, is said to have only one club in mind: Arsenal.

According to Gianluca Di Marzio, Calafiori believes that joining Arsenal is the “perfect step” in his career. The Gunners are currently negotiating a deal with Bologna, with an initial offer of £42 million on the table. However, Bologna is holding out for a fee closer to £42 million plus bonuses.

Despite Chelsea’s attempts to lure Calafiori to Stamford Bridge, the player has made it clear that he only wants to join Arsenal. This decision is said to be driven by his admiration for Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, whom he considers a “top coach.”

Calafiori’s arrival at the Emirates Stadium would be a significant boost for Arsenal, who are looking to strengthen their defense ahead of the new season. The Italian defender’s versatility, having played both as a center-back and left-back, would provide Arteta with more options in defense.

With the deal between Arsenal and Bologna expected to be finalized soon, Calafiori could join the Gunners on their preseason tour of the USA, which begins on July 21st. This would give him the opportunity to integrate with his new teammates and prepare for the upcoming Premier League campaign.

As for Chelsea, they will have to look elsewhere to bolster their defense, with Calafiori opting to join their London rivals instead. The Blues have been linked with several other defensive targets, including Nice’s Jean-Clair Todibo and Bayer Leverkusen’s Edmond Tapsoba.

For Arsenal, the acquisition of Calafiori would be a statement of intent, as they aim to build on their second-place finish in the Premier League last season. The Gunners have already been active in the transfer market, signing Declan Rice from West Ham United and Jurrien Timber from Ajax.

As the new season approaches, Arsenal fans will be hoping that Calafiori’s arrival can help them mount a serious title challenge and bring silverware back to the Emirates Stadium.