DEAL COMPLETED: Arsenal finally completes the signing of 23-year-old sensation who gave Messi a terrible time during the last World Cup, paperwork done – medical to follow up this morning.

Arsenal is anticipated to finalize the acquisition of Riccardo Calafiori, a promising defender from Bologna, in the coming week. Renowned sports journalist Fabrizio Romano has reported that Arsenal has recently intensified discussions with Bologna to conclude the transfer. The North London club has already reached agreements with both Calafiori and Bologna, with the remaining formalities expected to be completed shortly.

Calafiori, a product of the AS Roma academy, has seen a remarkable rise over the past year. In his first full season with Bologna after his return to Serie A, he featured in 33 matches and contributed to seven goals. His consistent performances earned him a spot in the Italian national team for Euro 2024, despite the team’s underwhelming performance. Calafiori’s impressive displays have garnered interest from several top European clubs.

After returning from his holiday, the 22-year-old defender expressed his desire to move to a larger club to the Bologna management. Although initial reports suggested he might remain in Italy, Calafiori is now set to join Arsenal in the Premier League.

Arsenal has been diligently pursuing Calafiori’s signature for some time. The club has agreed on personal terms with the player for a five-year contract and has recently finalized a transfer fee with Bologna, which is set at €40 million, with an additional €5 million in performance-related add-ons. Bologna has also secured a sell-on clause for Calafiori, who still has three years remaining on his contract with them.

Although both Arsenal and Bologna are aligned on the terms of the transfer, a few minor details need to be resolved. According to Romano, these include finalizing the payment structure for the sell-on clause with Calafiori’s former club, FC Basel. The player’s medical examination and the remaining formalities are scheduled for next week, after which Calafiori will officially join Arsenal.