FINALLY DONE ✅: Calafiori to Arsenal finally completed on a 5yr deal till 2029 after Arsenal offered £40m player plus £50m cash to sign the Bologna man – Jubilation at London Colney as Arsenal complete their second summer signing

Arsenal is nearing the completion of their second acquisition for the summer transfer window, targeting Bologna defender Riccardo Calafiori. The Italian has impressed at Euro 2024, making him a valuable addition to the Gunners’ lineup.

Following the permanent signing of goalkeeper David Raya from Brentford, Calafiori is set to be Arsenal’s next acquisition. However, discussions are still in progress. As reported by Corriere dello Sport via Football Italia, Arsenal has not yet agreed to Bologna’s €50 million asking price for the defender, but negotiations between the two clubs are expected to continue.

If the deal is finalized, Calafiori will sign a five-year contract with Arsenal, earning around €4 million annually. His addition would significantly strengthen Arsenal’s defense, as the club has been seeking a top-class center-back to partner with William Saliba. Renowned for his defensive prowess and ball-playing abilities, Calafiori is seen as an ideal fit for Mikel Arteta’s tactical system.

Bologna’s transfer chief Giovanni Sartori recently commented that Calafiori is more likely to move to the Premier League rather than join Juventus, despite the player’s preference for the Bianconeri. Sartori indicated that Bologna is open to substantial offers and willing to sell to the right club.

Initially linked with Liverpool, Arsenal now appears to be leading the race to secure Calafiori’s signature. Once Arsenal meets Bologna’s asking price, it will only be a matter of time before Calafiori completes his move to the Emirates Stadium. This signing would considerably bolster Arsenal’s defense and reflect Jorginho’s growing influence within the squad.

Arsenal is committed to building a team capable of contending for the Premier League title. Acquiring Calafiori, one of the top young defenders globally, would be a significant step in reinforcing their defensive lineup and enhancing their title ambitions.

Additionally, Arsenal is also pursuing Nico Williams as a wide player. Mikel Arteta has shown a strong preference for Williams, and both Arsenal and Chelsea have been linked with the winger. However, Williams reportedly favors a move to Barcelona.

Despite his preference for Barcelona, Williams desires his future to be resolved by the first week of August. Reports suggest he is currently ignoring interest from other clubs. Arsenal should stay prepared to act if Barcelona hesitates. Williams’ £47 million release clause is seen as reasonable, and Arsenal’s ability to offer Champions League football could give them an advantage over Chelsea in the competition for his signature.

With a Spanish-speaking manager who wants the winger, Arsenal could have an edge over Liverpool if Barcelona does not finalize a deal. Moreover, since Arsenal does not urgently need a winger, they can strategically position themselves to capitalize if the situation with Williams evolves.