Arsenal are opening talks to sign a defender, leading rivals Chelsea in the race
In the race for Bologna and Italy defender Riccardo Calafiori, Arsenal have leapfrogged Premier League rivals Chelsea.
After an impressive Serie A season, the 22-year-old Calafiori has received worldwide attention this summer.
He represented Italy admirably at Euro 2024 until his side’s shock exit in the round of 16.
Having already signed Spanish goalkeeper David Raya on a move this summer following his successful loan spell last season, the Gunners are looking to make a second signing.
A new defensive addition is being targeted by Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta and the Italian defender could be the target, with the Premier League club opening talks with Bologna over his signature.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reported on his X account that the Gunners have received the green light for the Italian defender and are now in contact with his club Bologna.
“After Riccardo Calafiori’s green light for the move and the contract, Arsenal contacted Bologna directly,” wrote Romano.
“Discussions between the clubs have started. There are no issues with the terms of Calafiori’s contract, as far as teams are concerned. Arsenal are ahead right now, no bid from Chelsea so far. “
🚨🔴⚪️ After Riccardo Calafiori’s green light for the move and the contract, Arsenal contacted Bologna directly.
Discussions between the clubs have begun.
There are no issues with the terms of Calafiori’s contract, as far as teams are concerned.
Arsenal are in front right now, no bid from Chelsea so far. pic.twitter.com/nUOfD836Cp
– Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 4, 2024
The left-back is being watched by some of the biggest clubs in the world this summer.
Italian giants Juventus are also keen to sign him but the Gunners are leading the race.
He will be a key addition to an Arsenal defense that conceded few goals in the Premier League last season.
Arsenal could add more quality to an already world-class defence
It would not be wrong to say that the Gunners have the best defensive partnership in the center of the league for the 2023-24 season with William Saliba and Gabriel manning their back line.
The left-footed Italian is likely to be signed to play at left-back by Arteta, which could mean Oleksandr Zinchenko could drop further down the pecking order.
Calafiori’s ability to play as a centre-back as well as on the left will give the Gunners manager another option in the defensive positions.
Source link
