Arsenal’s Riccardo Calafiori Transfer Saga Takes Another Twist as Deal Hangs in the Balance
Published: 18th July 2024
The ongoing saga surrounding Arsenal’s pursuit of Bologna defender Riccardo Calafiori has taken another unexpected turn, with a report claiming that the deal is hanging in the balance due to a variety of issues.
Arsenal’s Calafiori Conundrum
According to The Times, Arsenal’s offer of £37 million to sign the 22-year-old Italy international has been rejected by Bologna, who are holding out for a significantly higher fee. This is despite the fact that Arsenal have already offered to meet Calafiori’s buyout clause, which stands at around £46 million.
Kiwior’s Impact on the Deal
Furthermore, The Times claims that Arsenal defender Jakub Kiwior is the reason behind the impasse, as Bologna want to sign him as a replacement for Calafiori. Kiwior, however, has no interest in leaving the Emirates Stadium, preferring to wait for a move to a bigger Italian club like AC Milan.
Calafiori’s Situation
Calafiori’s situation is precarious, with his current club demanding a significant fee to let him leave. Despite his impressive performances at Euro 2024, the former Roma left-back is yet to commit his long-term future to the Gunners. Bologna’s reluctance to sell, combined with Arsenal’s inability to meet their asking price, has left Calafiori’s future uncertain.
The Verdict
While Arsenal’s pursuit of Calafiori has been intense, the club’s inability to secure the deal could prove costly. The failure to meet Bologna’s asking price may leave Calafiori feeling disillusioned, potentially harming the Gunners’ chances of convincing him to stay. As the transfer saga continues to unfold, one thing is certain: Mikel Arteta’s squad requires significant reinforcements ahead of the new season.
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Remember to stay tuned for further updates on Arsenal’s transfer business as the summer window heats up. In the meantime, leave your thoughts on the Calafiori saga in the comments below.