OFFICIAL NOW: Arsenal confirmed the signing of sensational Euro 2024 standout player,deal signed till 2028 – announcement to be done today
OFFICIAL NOW: Arsenal confirmed the signing of sensational Euro 2024 standout player,deal signed till 2028 – announcement to be done today
Arsenal have confirmed the signing of Italian centre-back Riccardo Calafiori from Serie A outfit Bologna.
The 22-year-old joins on a five-year contract, with the Gunners forking out around £42 million to lure him to the Emirates Stadium.
The Italy international defender becomes Arsenal’s second signing of the summer transfer window after David Raya signed on a permanent deal from Brentford.
Calafiori was a long-term target for the Gunners, and after protracted negotiations with Bologna, the deal has finally been completed.
The versatile centre-back completed his medical in London on Saturday before jetting off to the United States to link up with Mikel Arteta’s squad on their pre-season tour.
“It feels amazing,” Calafiori said in his first interview as an Arsenal player (via Arsenal.com).
“It was tough until now, but finally we’re here and I cannot wait to start to train with the team and play for the fans.
“It’s been my dream since I was 12 or 13 years old because I can see the level of the league here and the best players in the world play here. It’s a dream, not only for me but for everybody.
“I spoke a lot with the coach and with Edu, and they convinced me, but I was already convinced by myself. I think it’s the best project for me for the next few years, and I think I will improve as a player.”
Calafiori joins Arsenal after an exceptional campaign for both club and country.
He was a standout performer in Thiago Motta’s Bologna side that made history by qualifying for the 2024/25 Champions League.
Calafiori featured 37 times across all competitions for Bologna, chipping in with two goals and five assists. His exceptional performances earned him a place in Luciano Spalletti’s European Championship squad.
Arsenal started their tour of the United States with a 2-1 victory over Manchester United. They will face Liverpool next on Thursday.
