JUST IN: Club representatives are now in London to wrap up deal for £60m superstar, paperwork to be done tonight – announcement tomorrow morning

Arsenal’s leadership is optimistic about acquiring a high-caliber forward for around £50 million this summer. The club has already initiated preliminary discussions with the player’s representatives, gearing up for a potential official bid.

**Arsenal’s Pursuit of a Forward Amid Riccardo Calafiori Negotiations**

Following the permanent acquisition of David Raya for £27 million, Arsenal’s sporting director, Edu, has turned his attention to securing Bologna defender Riccardo Calafiori. According to Fabrizio Romano, Arsenal has commenced negotiations with Bologna, with Calafiori reportedly agreeing to personal terms for a five-year contract.

Calafiori, a promising central defender, made a significant impact during Euro 2024, contributing to Italy’s advance from the group stage. His suspension was notably detrimental when Italy was subsequently eliminated by Switzerland. Bringing Calafiori into the squad would be a strategic move for Mikel Arteta. Simultaneously, Arsenal is also seeking new attacking talents. The club is in search of a right-winger to provide rotation options for Bukayo Saka, showing interest in Lille’s Edon Zhegrova among other prospects.

Last season, Saka demonstrated his prowess by scoring 20 goals and providing 14 assists in 47 matches across all competitions. To mount a serious challenge against Manchester City for the Premier League title and enhance their overall competitiveness, Arsenal requires greater squad depth. Although previously linked with Wolves’ Pedro Neto, Arsenal remains interested in him as an option for their wide positions. Neto, who was part of Portugal’s Euro 2024 squad until their quarter-final defeat to France, now has the opportunity to reflect on his future at Wolves.

**Arsenal Confident in Securing Pedro Neto for £50 Million**

TEAMtalk reports that Arsenal has engaged Neto’s agency in discussions, despite several Premier League clubs monitoring his status. While Wolves value Neto at approximately £60 million, Arsenal is confident they can secure him for closer to £50 million. Neto has attracted interest from clubs such as Manchester United, Manchester City, Liverpool, and Tottenham, who see him as a viable alternative to Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze.

Despite facing injury setbacks, the 24-year-old made a notable impact last season, scoring 11 goals in just 20 league appearances. Jamie Carragher has described Neto as a “superstar,” emphasizing his importance to Wolves when fit, though his injury record remains a concern.

In conclusion, Arsenal is actively pursuing strategic signings to strengthen their squad, with a particular focus on acquiring top talents like Calafiori and Neto, aiming to significantly enhance their prospects for the forthcoming season.