Arsenal have signed Italian defender, Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna for £37.9m.
Calafiori’s moves to Arsenal came after an impressive Euro 2024, despite Italy’s lacklustre title defence ended by Switzerland at the Round of 16 stage – which he missed due to suspension.
Following weeks of extensive negotiations complicated by an issue concerning the 50% sell-on clause between Bologna and Basel, Arsenal will pay a £33.7m transfer fee followed by £4.2m in add-ons totalling £37.9m.
Calafiori has signed a five-year contract until June 2029 and will wear the number 33 shirt, which he described as “amazing” and admitted that his ambition was to play Premier League football.
“It’s actually 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, for me, play here. It’s a dream and 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,” added Calafiori. “I think it’s the best project for me for the next few years, and I think I will improve as a player.
Calafiori credited his new teammate, Jorginho for his move following conversations whilst playing together for Italy.
“I was already convinced but he forced me. He said: ‘come, come, come! You will enjoy being here, the team is amazing and the staff, everything is good.’ You can see that already from the first few minutes here.”
With tough competition for a starting spot, Calafiori is ready to fight for his place and chase titles.
“I came here to play so I will do everything to play and to give something to the team. I hope I can do that from the first few games.
“From my point of view, it’s just the start, the beginning of something bigger. I’m excited to start to play for Arsenal and to win trophies.”
Arsenal manager, Mikel Arteta welcomed Calafiori’s arrival in a boost to the Gunners’ defensive options.
“Riccardo is a big personality and character, with specific skills which will make us stronger as we push to win major trophies.
“He has already shown great development in recent seasons with his performances for both Bologna and Italy, with his progression and development in the past year being really impressive.
“We’re looking forward to working with Riccardo, integrating him into the squad, and supporting him in the years to come.”
Sporting Director, Edu added: “We identified Riccardo as part of our strategy to sign players who fit our profile and will reinforce our squad to compete at the highest level.
“He is 22 but brings quality and experience. He will quickly grow into being an Arsenal player.
“Riccardo has consistently shown his quality for his club and country. He was one of the best players in Serie A last season, and gave strong performances for Italy in the Euros this summer.
“Mikel and our coaches are excited to start working with Riccardo, and we all look forward to seeing him in our shirt.”
Calafiori could make his competitive debut for Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium, London, on Saturday 17 August at 3pm BST, as the Gunners host Wolves in their first match of the Premier League season.
The 22 year-old began his career at AS Roma where he graduated through their academy and scored one goal in 18 senior appearances, amidst a loan spell at Genoa in 2021-22 season.
Calafiori then spent a year with Basel where he managed one goal in 38 appearances, before he moved to Bologna where he netted twice in 33 appearances.
On the international stage, Calafiori only made his senior bow for Italy in June in a goalless draw against Turkey and has since earned five caps after he featured in three of Italy’s four fixtures at the Euros.
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