Timber decision, Jorginho role – Dream Arsenal lineup after £42m Riccardo Calafiori transfer – We’re surely winning the league title this season
Arsenal are on the brink of securing their second significant signing of the summer as they prepare to challenge Manchester City for the Premier League title in the 2024/25 season.
After converting the loan of goalkeeper David Raya from Brentford into a permanent deal, Arsenal’s transfer activities are set to intensify further. The club is now nearing the acquisition of Bologna defender Riccardo Calafiori for an estimated fee of around £42.5 million.
Arsenal have already reached personal terms with the Italian international and are keen to finalize the deal promptly. However, Bologna are not in a rush to part with Calafiori, who has three years left on his contract. Calafiori impressed at Euro 2024, featuring in every group stage match before his suspension in Italy’s Round of 16 loss to Switzerland.
With Italy now out of the tournament, negotiations for Calafiori’s transfer to north London are in full swing, though there are still obstacles to overcome. Reports indicate that Arsenal have not yet met Bologna’s £42 million valuation. Additionally, there are complexities due to a sell-on clause included in Calafiori’s agreement with Bologna by FC Basel.
Earlier in the transfer window, Bologna’s technical director, Giovanni Sartori, expressed the club’s wish to retain Calafiori but acknowledged the probability of his departure. Sartori noted interest from several clubs, including Juventus, but suggested that Calafiori might move to a different market.
Securing Calafiori would significantly bolster Arsenal’s defense, particularly at left-back—a position that was problematic last season. Injuries to key players like Jurrien Timber, who was sidelined after his debut following a £34 million transfer from Ajax, forced Oleksandr Zinchenko and Jakub Kiwior to bear much of the defensive load. Calafiori’s addition would provide immediate reinforcement.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has recently reassured fans of the club’s commitment to strengthening the squad. He stated that the club aims to improve in all areas and is actively seeking new signings across the pitch. Arteta acknowledged the challenges of the transfer market but expressed confidence in securing the right deals.
The potential arrival of Calafiori would mean a defensive lineup similar to last season, with Ben White, Gabriel Magalhaes, and William Saliba retaining their places. Calafiori’s presence would enhance both the team’s defensive solidity and attacking capabilities.
There have been rumors regarding potential departures for players like Kiwior and Zinchenko, but their versatility, along with Takehiro Tomiyasu, offers valuable depth. Meanwhile, with Thomas Partey possibly leaving, Jorginho is expected to join Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard in the midfield. The attacking trio of Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz, and Gabriel Martinelli is likely to remain unchanged.
Arsenal’s potential starting lineup following the signing of Calafiori could be: David Raya in goal; a backline consisting of Ben White, William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhaes, and Riccardo Calafiori; a midfield trio of Jorginho, Declan Rice, and Martin Odegaard; and an attacking front comprising Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz, and Gabriel Martinelli.
