Arsenal have secured the signing of Italian defender Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna on a long-term contract, the Premier League club announced on Monday. While the exact details of the transfer were not disclosed, reports suggest Arsenal will pay Bologna approximately 40 million euros ($43.26 million) plus an additional five million euros in add-ons.
The 22-year-old Calafiori had a standout season at Bologna under coach Thiago Motta, playing a crucial role in their historic campaign that saw them finish fifth in Serie A and qualify for the Champions League for the first time since 1964. He made 30 Serie A appearances last season after joining Bologna from AS Roma.
Calafiori also made his international debut in June and participated in three of Italy’s four matches in the European Championship, becoming the second-youngest Italian to play in the Euros, following Paolo Maldini.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta expressed enthusiasm about the new addition: “We welcome Riccardo and his family to Arsenal. He is a great signing and provides us with significant strength to reinforce our defence. Riccardo has a strong personality and skill set that will make us more competitive as we aim for major trophies. We look forward to integrating him into the squad and supporting him in the coming years.”
Arsenal will kick off their Premier League campaign on August 17 against Wolverhampton Wanderers.
