“As my former assistant coach, I will always want the best for him, which is why I’m pointing him in the direction of signing this amazing player. This will enable him to compete in bigger competitions, as I will be retiring soon and I want him to take over in Europe,” Pep Guardiola tells Arteta to go for the £50m player if he wants to conquer Europe next season.
Arsenal has taken a commanding position in the competition to acquire a star player from Bologna, surpassing Paris-Saint Germain’s offer with a more enticing proposal.
### Edu Initiates Summer Transfers for Arsenal
As the summer transfer window progresses, Arsenal’s sporting director Edu has begun his strategic maneuvers, albeit with less activity compared to other Premier League clubs. Thus far, their only major signing has been goalkeeper David Raya, who has joined permanently from Brentford for approximately £27 million following a season-long loan at the Emirates during the 2023/2024 campaign.
Despite numerous speculations, Arsenal has yet to complete additional signings this summer. The club is reportedly searching for a new goalkeeper to succeed Aaron Ramsdale, who is anticipated to depart. Furthermore, Edu is targeting reinforcements in defense, midfield, and attack, as reported by Simon Collings.
Last season, Arsenal came close to securing their first Premier League title in two decades, contending with Manchester City until the final matchday. To bolster their title aspirations, they are now seeking to make critical additions to their squad.
### Arsenal Seeks Defensive Strengthening
Despite conceding the fewest goals in the Premier League last season, Arsenal is in pursuit of a new center-back. Gabriel Magalhaes and William Saliba have been vital to Mikel Arteta’s defense since the onset of the 2022/2023 season, yet Arteta desires another star player in that role.
Currently, Takehiro Tomiyasu, Ben White, and Jakub Kiwior provide backup for Saliba and Gabriel. However, these players are frequently utilized as makeshift full-backs, underscoring the need for a dedicated center-back.
This necessity has heightened interest in Bologna’s Riccardo Calafiori, who showcased impressive performances at Euro 2024. The Italian defender was noticeably absent in Italy’s last-16 match against Switzerland but delivered standout performances during the group stages.
### Arsenal Poised to Secure Calafiori
Sky journalist Gianluca Di Marzio has provided an update on Arsenal’s pursuit of the 22-year-old Calafiori. According to Di Marzio, PSG, Chelsea, and Bayer Leverkusen are also vying for the player, but Arsenal is “getting closer and closer” to finalizing his acquisition.
Edu and his team have proposed a more compelling project and a more attractive offer to both Calafiori and Bologna. This strategic approach has positioned Arsenal strongly to secure the defender, outpacing PSG and their London competitors.
The upcoming days will be pivotal in concluding the deal, which is expected to be substantial. Di Marzio mentions that it will require £42 million to entice Calafiori away from Bologna.
