Bologna defender Riccardo Calafiori is “really excited” by the prospect of working with Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.
Writing in his column for the Daily Briefing, Romano said that the defender is keenly anticipating a move to the Emirates:
“The player gave a green light to Arsenal in terms of contract, and is really excited by the possibility of working under Mikel Arteta. He’s considered a proper, proper talent for the left-back or centre-back position, he can cover both of them.”
“Arsenal are really convinced that they have an agreement almost ready on the player side, but are still waiting to reach agreement with Bologna.”
Is there competition for Calafiori’s signature?
Romano says that Chelsea are “monitoring” the Italian international’s situation but the Gunners remain “ahead” of their London rivals in the battle for the player’s signature.
The key will be finding an agreement with Bologna over the transfer fee. Calafiori‘s asking price seems to keep rising. It is believed that he could now fetch as much as €55m (£46.6m), which is a significant amount.
Arsenal do have good relations with Bologna, having previously done a deal for Takehiro Tomiyasu almost three years ago, but finding a compromise on a fee may still take some time.
Raya’s permanent move to Arsenal has been confirmed
If Calafiori does secure his switch to the Emirates, he will be the club’s second signing of the summer, with David Raya having now finally completed his transfer to the club.
The Spaniard spent last season on loan with the Gunners from Brentford, but there was an option to make the deal permanent for £27m. That clause was triggered and the deal was finalised on Thursday. He will be Arsenal’s no.1 heading into next season.
