Last season, Calafiori made an impression for Bologna and the Italy national team.
Arsenal has acquired Bologna’s Riccardo Calafiori, an Italy defender, on what the Premier League team announced on Monday as a “long-term contract”. The 22-year-old Calafiori signed a five-year contract worth £42 million ($54 million) at the Emirates Stadium after representing Italy at Euro 2024, according to British media reports. No fee was disclosed. “Welcome to Arsenal, Riccardo and his family,” stated Mikel Arteta, the manager of the Gunners. “He is a fantastic addition, adding enormous strength to our defense.
“Riccardo is a strong character and person with unique skills that will help us push for major trophies.”
“With his performances for both Bologna and Italy in recent seasons, he has already demonstrated great development. His growth and development over the last year have been extremely impressive.
“We’re looking forward to working with Riccardo, integrating him into the squad and supporting him in the years to come.”
Calafiori joins Arsenal as their second major acquisition of the summer transfer window, following the permanent loan of David Raya from London rivals Brentford.
After trailing Premier League winners Manchester City by just two points in the previous season, the Gunners will aim to improve in the 2024–2025 campaign.
