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

Arsenal are reportedly nearing the signing of Bologna centre-back Riccardo Calafiori, according to Gianluca Di Marzio. The club has made Calafiori a top target this summer, and Corriere dello Sport claims that they have submitted an initial bid of £40 million for the 22-year-old. However, Bologna has not accepted this offer, seeking at least £42.4 million due to a 40 percent profit clause owed to Calafiori’s former club, Basel.

Although Arsenal has yet to submit an improved bid, Di Marzio notes that the negotiations between Calafiori and Arsenal are progressing positively. Despite interest from Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, and Bayer Leverkusen, Arsenal’s project has been more appealing to both the player and Bologna. As a result, Arsenal is now leading the race to sign the Italian defender.

Arsenal’s transfer activity has been discreet this window, indicating behind-the-scenes efforts to secure key targets. Calafiori is among these targets, and the club is moving closer to meeting Bologna’s demands with a renewed offer. Arsenal’s main competitor for the signing is Chelsea, but Arsenal’s participation in the Champions League gives them a significant advantage.

Calafiori would be a valuable addition to Arsenal’s squad, offering versatility as he can play both central defense and left-back. His strengths include ball-playing skills, aerial presence, tackling, and ball recoveries. He can also contribute to goals. Arsenal might see him as a potential replacement for Jakub Kiwior, who has been linked with a return to Serie A amid interest from Juventus and AC Milan.