According to Metro, Arsenal's pursuit of Italy defender Riccardo Calafiori has sparked significant interest, with the Gunners reportedly nearing a £40 million deal for the talented left-back.
Calafiori, who impressed during Italy's recent Euro 2024 campaign despite their early exit, has caught the eye of Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta following a standout season with Bologna in Serie A.
The 22-year-old's potential move to the Premier League has drawn criticism from Italian football figure Walter Sabatini, who described it as a "disaster" for Serie A. Sabatini highlighted Calafiori's qualities, emphasizing his left-footed prowess, physical presence, and leadership on the field. He pointed to memorable moments from Calafiori's performances, including a remarkable play against Croatia, as evidence of his quality and courage.
Calafiori's season at Bologna, where he made 33 appearances and helped secure a Champions League spot, has bolstered his reputation and attracted interest from top clubs like Arsenal and Chelsea. Despite competition, Calafiori is reportedly eager to join Arsenal, drawn by the opportunity to play for a club that finished second in the Premier League last season.
Former Arsenal player Emmanuel Petit expressed admiration for Calafiori's skill set, noting his technical ability, tactical intelligence, and versatility across different positions. Petit emphasized Calafiori's leadership qualities and on-field presence, suggesting he could be a valuable addition to Arsenal's squad.
As Arsenal progresses in negotiations for Calafiori, his potential arrival signifies a strategic move to strengthen their defensive capabilities and add depth to their squad ahead of the upcoming season.