OFFICIAL NOW: Arsenal announce the signing of 23yr sensational player after beating Liverpool and Madrid for His signature, agreement reached on a 5yr deal, Medical completed – announcement ongoing

Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal are on the verge of finalizing the signing of Bologna’s highly-rated defender, Riccardo Calafiori, with the deal expected to be completed next week.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Arsenal engaged in a fresh round of discussions with Bologna today as they aim to close the deal for Riccardo Calafiori. The Gunners have already reached agreements with both the player and the Italian club. All formal steps are anticipated to be completed by next week to finalize the transfer.

Calafiori has experienced a remarkable rise over the past year. The AS Roma academy graduate had an outstanding debut season with Bologna upon returning to Serie A. He participated in 33 matches and contributed to seven goals.

Due to his consistent performances, Calafiori was included in Italy’s squad for Euro 2024. Although the Azzurri did not meet expectations, Calafiori distinguished himself with some exceptional defensive displays.

His impressive performances attracted interest from several top European clubs. After returning from holiday, the 22-year-old defender made it clear to the Bologna board that he wishes to move on and join a bigger club. While initial reports suggested he preferred to remain in Italy, Calafiori is now poised to join Premier League giants Arsenal.

Arsenal have been diligently working to secure Calafiori’s services for some time. They had already agreed on personal terms with the player for a five-year deal and recently struck a deal with Bologna. The North London club has agreed to pay €40 million plus an additional €5 million in add-ons for the transfer.

Bologna has secured a sell-on clause for Calafiori, who still has three years remaining on his contract with them. While the main terms are agreed upon, a few final details need to be sorted out. According to Romano, both clubs held another round of talks to finalize the deal.

The Gunners are waiting for an agreement between Bologna and Calafiori’s former club FC Basel regarding the sell-on clause payment structure. The player’s medical and final formalities are expected to be completed next week, after which he will officially sign with Arsenal.