Bologna’s star close to joining Arsenal in $49m deal

Arsenal are close to finalizing a deal in principle with Bologna for the transfer of Italian international defender Riccardo Calafiori.

Bologna has been holding out for a £42 million fee for the 22-year-old left-back.

According to Sky Italy, ongoing discussions are focused on the payment structure and additional clauses of the agreement.

Personal terms between Calafiori and Arsenal are not anticipated to be an issue.

However, a significant aspect of the negotiations is Basel’s entitlement to up to 50 percent of any profit Bologna makes from the sale.

Bologna acquired Calafiori last summer for £3.3 million.

Calafiori impressed at Euro 2024, despite Italy’s early exit in the tournament held in Germany.

His absence due to suspension was keenly felt in Italy’s last-16 defeat to Switzerland.

Arsenal are looking to strengthen their left-back position, as Oleksandr Zinchenko did not have the desired impact last season. In addition to Riccardo Calafiori, Arsenal has also secured the permanent signing of goalkeeper David Raya.