Arsenal receive good news on their pursuit of Riccardo Calafiori

After weeks of speculation, Arsenal have finally reached an agreement with Bologna for the transfer of highly-rated defender Riccardo Calafiori, according to renowned transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano.

The deal, reportedly worth €40 million plus €5 million in add-ons, is said to include a sell-on clause. However, there’s one final hurdle to clear before the transfer is officially confirmed: agreement on the sell-on payment terms between Bologna and Basel, who hold a 50% stake in the player.

Calafiori, who enjoyed a successful 2022/23 season with Bologna, making 30 appearances in Serie A, has been a target for Arsenal for some time. The Gunners are looking to bolster their defensive options following their impressive second-place finish in the Premier League last season, narrowly missing out on the title to Manchester City.

The Italian defender’s arrival would add depth and competition to Arsenal’s backline, providing manager Mikel Arteta with another versatile and talented option.

With the final agreement on the sell-on clause seemingly close, a “here we go” announcement from Romano could be imminent, officially confirming Calafiori’s move to the Emirates Stadium.