DEAL COMPLETED: Arsenal finally completes the signing of 23-year-old sensation who gave Messi a terrible time during the last World Cup, paperwork done – medical to follow up this morning.

Arsenal is expected to finalize the signing of Riccardo Calafiori, a promising defender from Bologna, next week. According to sports journalist Fabrizio Romano, Arsenal has recently engaged in further discussions with Bologna to conclude the deal. The North London club has already reached an agreement with both Calafiori and Bologna, with the formalities of the transfer expected to be completed soon.

Calafiori, an AS Roma academy product, has experienced a significant rise over the past year. In his first full season with Bologna after returning to Serie A, he played in 33 matches, contributing to seven goals. His consistent performances earned him a spot in the Italian national squad for Euro 2024, despite the team not meeting expectations. Calafiori’s impressive displays have attracted interest from several top European clubs.

After returning from his holiday, the 22-year-old defender informed the Bologna management of his desire to move to a larger club. Despite initial reports suggesting he might stay in Italy, Calafiori is now poised to join Arsenal in the Premier League.

Arsenal has been diligently pursuing Calafiori’s signature for some time. The club has agreed on personal terms with the player for a five-year contract and has recently finalized a transfer fee with Bologna, set at €40 million plus an additional €5 million in performance-related add-ons. Bologna has secured a sell-on clause for Calafiori, who still has three years remaining on his contract with them.

Although both Arsenal and Bologna are aligned on the terms of the transfer, a few minor details need to be resolved. According to Romano, these include finalizing the payment structure for the sell-on clause with Calafiori’s former club, FC Basel. The player’s medical examination and remaining formalities are scheduled for next week, after which Calafiori will officially join Arsenal.