Arsenal fans are still waiting for the confirmation for the move of Riccardo Calafiori this summer.
For weeks, the official announcement of the transfer of Calafiori has been due now. The deal that has been in talks for a couple of weeks is believed to be in ‘advanced’ stages. However, Ben Jacobs said in an exclusive interview with GIVEMESPORT that negotiations are proving ‘relatively tough’ between both clubs. Arsenal and Bologna disagree on each other’s demands as the Gunners reportedly refuse the transfer fee demanded by their Italian counterparts.
Also read: Gunners extremely close to sign Riccardo Calafiori
Calafiori arrived in Germany with the Italian side as a rising star of the Serie A. The 22-year-old put up some really impressive performances with his Italian Club Bologna last season. His contribution got him the attention of other clubs and also helped Bologna to qualify for the Champions League.
Even though Italy failed to make it big in this Euros, the young defender was the talking point for the other clubs.
Many clubs sought the Italian
Coming to the continental scene, Calafiori’s assist in the last minute against Croatia proved crucial to help Italy get into second place and eliminate Modiri’s men. Alongside Arsenal, it is believed Juventus and Chelsea also have an interest in the Italian defender. Also as reported, the Gunners have been in talks with Bologna for the past couple of weeks.
Initially, the Gunners were lagging behind Juventus for Calafiori but following the ‘old lady’ stalling, they are now the frontrunners. Further, reportedly Calafiori has agreed on personal terms. It is the talks between the clubs that are stalling the deal.
Calafiori negotiations “tough”
Arsenal has been pursuing Riccardo Calafiori for quite a while now but the deal still doesn’t seem to get over the line. As reported by Ben Jacobs, the defender himself wants to move but it is Bologna who is making the move difficult over his transfer fee.
Also read: Arsenal receives ‘green light’ from Riccardo Calafiori
Although the talks are in the advanced stage between Arsenal and Bologna the Gunners are considering the fee. Jacobs said in an exclusive:
“Arsenal still want Riccardo Calafiori, but the negotiations are also relatively tough, because Bologna are sticking to their asking price of around €50million (£43million). Arsenal are still deciding whether that is value for money or whether they’re going to decide to look elsewhere.
“Things are advanced between the two clubs, and the player is now waiting for Arsenal, so he is fully sold. He wants that move, and he’s also aware that Juventus are out of the race because they think the overall package is too expensive.
“So a couple of months before the window, Juventus were the frontrunners, and they also had player buy-in, but they’ve not indicated they’re not prepared to move at the €50m asking price.”
The Italian will be an excellent addition to the already strong defense of the Gunners. The defender could take the left-back position joining the Emirates.
Why go for Calafiori
Calafiori brings a more stable defense to the Gunners’ side. The Serie A star had a commendable run last season attracting attention from everyone.
If nothing else, the 22-year-old’s statistics speak for themselves. His accomplishments at Bologna amply validate his status as an accomplished center-back. Even though it could be argued that Serie A is not as competitive as the Premier League, this “sensational” center-back’s impressive stats cannot be disregarded.
Also read: Bologna prepare for double departure
Calafiori made 37 appearances for the Bologna team. He contributed five assists and two goals. Further, he completed 90% of the side’s successful passes. It’s also crucial to remember that Calafiori plays with his front foot. By doing this, Arsenal would be able to exert pressure on the opposition and dominate the game.
Read more: givemesport.com
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