OFFICIAL NOW ✅: First part of Medical completed as Arsenal set the announce their biggest signing of the summer today after beating Chelsea to His signature,deal signed till 2029 – Here we go
### Arsenal Secures Deal for Defender Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna
Contrary to earlier reports suggesting complications, Arsenal has successfully finalized an agreement with Bologna for the transfer of defender Riccardo Calafiori. As confirmed by David Ornstein, this acquisition represents a significant enhancement to the Gunners’ defensive lineup.
### Financial Details and Finalization
Calafiori, a distinguished defender for Bologna, will join Arsenal in a transfer deal worth £33.7 million, with an additional £4.2 million in potential bonuses and a sell-on clause. Despite initial disagreements over the transfer fee, the negotiations concluded successfully, largely due to the efforts of Calafiori’s agent, Alessandro Lucci. The agreement is now in its final stages, pending Calafiori’s medical examination, which is expected to complete the transfer process.
### Contract and Strategic Implications
As part of the deal, Calafiori’s former club, Basel, is entitled to 50% of the transfer fee due to a sell-on clause from his initial transfer to Bologna. At just 22 years old, Calafiori is considered an ideal solution to Arsenal’s left-back challenges. Known for his adept passing and defensive skills, he is likely to secure a starting position in the team, potentially outpacing current options such as Oleksandr Zinchenko and Jakub Kiwior.
### Player’s Enthusiasm and Contract Terms
Calafiori’s eagerness to join Arsenal was significantly influenced by his discussions with manager Mikel Arteta, leading to smooth negotiations over personal terms. He is expected to sign a five-year contract, extending until June 2029, with an annual salary of £3.3 million.
### Competitive Bidding and Player’s Decision
According to Italian transfer expert Gianluca Di Marzio, who spoke with Sky Sports, Calafiori had several options but ultimately chose Arsenal over clubs like Chelsea, underscoring his preference for the North London side. Di Marzio noted, “If they get Calafiori, they will get the perfect Premier League defender. He wants Arsenal. In his mind, it was only Arsenal. Even Chelsea tried to get him, but the player said no, I want Arsenal.”
Arsenal faced competition from Juventus and Chelsea to secure Calafiori’s signature. While Chelsea’s interest did not pose a significant threat, Juventus was a more serious contender. However, Bologna’s management was reluctant to sell Calafiori to a domestic rival, particularly given past tensions with Juventus.
### Conclusion
This acquisition has sparked excitement among Arsenal fans, as Calafiori is widely regarded as the ideal defender to bolster an already strong defense.
