Arsenal have secured the signing of Italian defender Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna on a long-term contract, as announced by the Premier League club on Monday. While the transfer details were not officially disclosed, reports from Italian and British media suggest that Arsenal will pay Bologna approximately 40 million euros ($43.26 million) plus an additional five million in add-on fees.
Calafiori shone under Thiago Motta's management last season, significantly contributing to Bologna's historic fifth-place finish in Serie A and their qualification for the Champions League for the first time since 1964.
The 22-year-old defender made 30 appearances in Serie A last season after transferring from AS Roma. He also made his international debut in June and participated in three of the four matches in the European Championship, becoming the second-youngest Italian to play in the Euros, following Paolo Maldini. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta expressed his enthusiasm about the new addition, stating that Calafiori's arrival will greatly strengthen their defense as they aim to compete for major trophies.
Arteta welcomed Riccardo and his family to Arsenal, highlighting the player's significant personality and skills. He emphasized that Calafiori's qualities would make the team stronger and expressed eagerness to integrate him into the squad and support him in the years ahead. Arsenal is set to commence their Premier League campaign on 17 August against Wolverhampton Wanderers.
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