The London club reportedly offered a fee in excess of €50 million, which Bologna accepted. With the central defender himself preparing to put his signature wide open on a 5-year contract, which will give him the opportunity to put the sum of 4 million euros into his bank account annually.

The left-footed central defender, born on May 19, 2002, who had a very good presence both in last year's Serie A championship with the shirt of Bologna, and in the 17th European Championship with the Italian national team, has won the appreciation and sympathy of its coach Arsenal, Mikel Arteta. That is why the latter persistently asks for its acquisition. Of course, the young long-haired defender realizes that with his move to the Premier League and to Arsenal, which will participate in the League Phase of the UEFA Champions League, he will raise the level of his career.

Calafiori's style of play aligns perfectly with Arteta's vision of a modern, proactive defensive unit. Calafiori is a forward, modern defender who is expected to fit in almost perfectly with Arteta's system at the Gunners. His ability to contribute both defensively and develop play from the back makes him a valuable addition to the team.

The London club reportedly offered a fee in excess of €50 million, which Bologna accepted. With the central defender himself preparing to put his signature wide open on a 5-year contract, which will give him the opportunity to put the sum of 4 million euros into his bank account annually.

So Arsenal are on the verge of completing their first major transfer for the summer of 2024 and Arteta is starting to feel satisfied.

Calafiori will undergo a medical in the US where Arsenal are preparing, it will be announced and Mikel Arteta will be made available.

Excellent credentials

The 22-year-old central defender has an impressive track record. Last season, he was instrumental in Bologna finishing in the top 5 in Serie A, (68 points from 38 games) allowing them to qualify for the upcoming Champions League for the first time in 60 years. His excellent form also led to his call-up to the Italy national team, where he played a key role during their Euro 2024 campaign. Despite missing the round of 16 match against Switzerland (due to suspension), the performances Calafiori's performances in the group stage were remarkable.

Now the transfer of young Calafiori involves a notable financial aspect. Swiss Basel, the footballer's former club, are entitled to a 40 to 50 percent buy-out clause from his move to Bologna in 2023. This clause is a testament to his potential and value. Calafiori is set to be the first summer addition to Arteta's squad following the permanent signing of goalkeeper David Raya from Brentford for a fee of €30m. This transfer activity marks a period of significant change and ambition for the Gunners.

Calafiori, who began his career at left-back but has recently impressed in central defense, has been identified as a transfer priority by Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta. Now in his new team he is expected to be given the opportunity to compete as a second stopper, next to the Frenchman, William Saliba, which will strengthen the Gunners even more...