Riccardo Calafiori's move to Chelsea hijacked by Arsenal after call with Mikel Arteta

Reports have been stating that Arsenal is interested in acquiring Italy's Riccardo Calafiori, who had an incredible season with Bologna. The Gunners have put together a list of possible targets in an effort to boost their defensive lines this season. Though no negotiations have yet progressed, reports list Bologna star Calafiori being among them. 

Last season, Mikel Arteta's team finished second to Manchester City for the second consecutive time and the Spaniard hopes to change that. Even though his team had the greatest defensive record throughout the Premier League during the previous season, acquiring a new member in the defence is one of his top goals.

Calafiori made an impression for Italy at UEFA Euro 2024, and he has since become a coveted commodity throughout the transfer season. The 22-year-old was an oasis of light for the Azzurri, even if the Euro 2020 winners endured a dismal tournament and lost in the opening round of the knockout round.

 

It comes after an incredible season at Bologna, where the defender was a major contributor to their impressive Serie A third-place result. Bologna will participate in the UEFA Champions League for the very first time, but they will be losing players as top striker Joshua Zirkzee is rumored to be leaving for a prominent Premier League team and coach Thiago Motta has already joined Juventus.

Which teams have shown an interest in signing Riccardo Calafiori?

Another player who appears certain to leave is Calafiori; Arsenal is leading the chase for the former Basel star. Still, a number of teams, including Chelsea, Liverpool, and Real Madrid, have expressed an interest in the Italian. Juventus was reportedly in the lead to sign him, but Giovanni Satori, the director of Bologna, thinks he will ultimately move abroad.

Calafiori has been recognized for his ability to play in a hybrid role, jumping into midfield out of an inverted position, which has swiftly become a crucial tactical option under some of the best clubs in Europe. He has been acclaimed for his versatility, having played both left-back and center-back.