Report: Arsenal Want to Seal Quick Agreement for “Creative” Player Who Has Heart Set on Joining
Arsenal are aiming to quickly finalise an agreement to acquire a player who reportedly has his heart set to work under manager Mikel Arteta.
With only a month left in the summer transfer window, the north London club has made their first outfield signing of the period. This week, Arsenal officially announced the acquisition of Italy international defender Riccardo Calafiori on a five-year contract. This move addresses their need for an alternative to Gabriel Magalhaes and William Saliba.
Calafiori, who impressed during the Euros and played a key role in helping Bologna secure a Champions League spot last season, showcases his significant potential and quality.
Arteta, speaking on the club’s official website, highlighted Calafiori’s “big personality” and “specific skills,” which he believes will help elevate Arsenal to new heights.
“We welcome Riccardo and his family to Arsenal. He is a great signing and gives us huge strength to reinforce our defence,” said Arteta.
“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.”
Calafiori made a notable impact under Thiago Motta at Bologna last season, featuring in 30 Serie A matches. He contributed significantly in the attacking third, scoring two goals and providing five assists.
The former FC Basel player showcased his forward-thinking abilities on a prominent stage at Euro 2024. During the tournament, Calafiori played a crucial role in setting up Mattia Zaccagni’s dramatic 98th-minute equalizer against Croatia with a skillful run into their half.
As Arteta considers his potential contributions, Edu Gaspar and his team are reassessing their plans to enhance the squad. The midfield position, in particular, is identified as an area for possible improvement before the transfer deadline on August 30, with Real Sociedad’s Mikel Merino being a notable target.
Arsenal Aim for Swift Merino Transfer as Player’s Position is Clear
Football Transfers has provided an update on their pursuit of Spain international, who also made a notable impression at Euro 2024.
Merino is now in the final year of his contract with Sociedad, which means he could potentially be acquired for less than his £55 million release clause. Arsenal are keen on securing a quick deal for Merino, who has his heart set on joining Arteta at London Colney and has already settled on personal terms.
Nevertheless, this situation hinges on Emile Smith Rowe’s transfer to Fulham. Arsenal will need to complete Smith Rowe’s £35 million move to Craven Cottage before they can proceed with acquiring Merino.
The 28-year-old, described as “creative” by IF Brommapojkarna performance analyst Marcus Bring, scored eight goals and provided five assists in 45 appearances across all competitions for Sociedad last season.
In other Arsenal news, Arsenal New Signing Riccardo Calafiori Positions Revealed
