HERE WE GO ✅: Arsenal set to announce another big signing today, personal terms already agreed – announcement tomorrow

Arsenal is reportedly close to securing the services of Bologna’s center-back Riccardo Calafiori, according to Gianluca Di Marzio. The North London club has identified Calafiori as a primary target this summer. Corriere dello Sport reports that Arsenal has made an initial bid of £40 million for the 22-year-old defender. However, this offer has been rejected by Bologna, who are holding out for at least £42.4 million due to a 40 percent profit clause owed to Calafiori’s former club, Basel.

Despite not yet submitting an improved bid, Di Marzio indicates that the negotiations between Calafiori and Arsenal are progressing favorably. Interest from clubs such as Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, and Bayer Leverkusen exists, but Arsenal’s project has been the most attractive to both the player and Bologna. Consequently, Arsenal is currently leading the race to secure the Italian defender’s signature.

This summer, Arsenal’s transfer activities have been notably discreet, suggesting that significant efforts are being made behind the scenes to secure key targets. Calafiori is one of these targets, and the club is edging closer to meeting Bologna’s valuation with an anticipated revised offer. While Chelsea remains a formidable competitor for the signing, Arsenal’s participation in the Champions League offers them a significant edge.

Adding Calafiori to the squad would provide Arsenal with a valuable asset due to his versatility, being capable of playing both as a central defender and a left-back. Calafiori’s strengths include his ability to play the ball, his aerial prowess, tackling ability, and ball recoveries. Additionally, he has the potential to contribute goals. Arsenal might view him as a potential replacement for Jakub Kiwior, who is rumored to be considering a return to Serie A amidst interest from Juventus and AC Milan.