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Bologna defender Riccardo Calafiori has reportedly agreed a deal to a Premier League rival, despite reported interest from Liverpool coming earlier in the transfer window.

The 22-year-old Italian has caught the eye of several top European clubs following his impressive performances in Serie A and at Euro 2024.

Under the guidance of manager then Thiago Motta, Calafiori transitioned from his traditional left-back role to a left-sided centre-back, showcasing his versatility and tactical acumen.

Known for his physical presence, aerial ability, and game-reading skills, Calafiori became a cornerstone of Bologna’s defense

He featured in 30 matches during the 2023/24 Serie A season, contributing five assists and playing a crucial role in Bologna’s impressive campaign that saw them qualify for the Champions League for the first time in nearly six decades.

Despite Italy’s round of 16 exit to Switzerland, Calafiori played 100% of the minutes available in the group stage but was suspended for the defeat against the Swiss

His versatility, being able to play both as a center-back and left-back, and his left-footedness is what likely made him attractive target for Liverpool, who could be looking to bolster their defensive options following Joel Matip’s departure.

Last season, Bologna had the third-best defense in Serie A, and Calafiori was a major contributor to that success.

Only 32 goals were given up by them in 38 games.

With regard to defense, only Juventus and Inter were superior.

But according to reports in Italy, Calafiori is London bound

Arsenal set to make Riccardo Calafiori signing

Italian outlet La Gazetta Dello Sport have reported that the Gunners have ‘won the auction’ for the coveted defender.

They claim the 22-year-old defender have already come to a personal agreement with the London club on a multi-year contract for 4 million euros annually.

Credits: La Gazzetta/@afcstuff

Bologna have now agreed to sell Calafiori because the counterattack has arrived from Arsenal worth €53m, after President Saputo’s club previously turned down a €47m offer from the Gunners.

They go on further to state that Tottenham had attempted a transfer in private in January, and that Riccardo Calafiori has captured the heart of Arteta and of Arsenal.

Ultimately, Arsenal prevailed, providing Bologna with a big financial boost, of which 50% will go to Basel, the Swiss team that Bologna bought the Italian from for 4 million euros the previous summer.

So, it seems that Riccardo Calafiori is one name we can now rule out as a possible signing this summer, which then begs the question as to who Richard Hughes and co?
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