Arsenal has a title to chase upcoming season and some transfers to make this summer as they look to strengthen their defensive line with William Saliba.
Arsenal narrowly missed the Premier League title losing out to Man City by just two points. For the upcoming season however, Mikel Arteta is determined to make a comeback with the Gunners getting the side their first title since 2004.
The Euros are in their full force right now but the transfer market can’t wait. All the eyes are on the players for the upcoming season. The Gunners are looking for the players who could make that small difference to help clinch the side’s long-due Premier League trophy.
Although the runner-ups scored five fewer goals than the Man City side, they could definitely boast about their defensive line which was the best.
Now Mikel Arteta and Edu Gasper would love to increase their advantage. The latest reports also indicate the same with a possible signing of a new defender around the corner. The latest defender linked with the Emirates by reports is the trending topic of Euros. His entry at Arsenal could very well solidify the defensive line alongside William Saliba.
Transfer news report exciting talent for Arsenal
The latest report by Fabrizio Romano indicates Arsenal’s interest in the Italian star defender Riccardo Calafiori. The Bologna defender has gained a lot of praise for his commendable performance with the Serie A side.
Although his club would love to keep the star defender, the possibility of Calafiori leaving has increased. Further, Romano has specified that the Italian would prefer to move to Juventus. But, this transfer would not be easy given the sour relationship of its club with them.
Further, Bologna technical director Giovanni Sartori has clearly stated that they can’t afford to lose Calafiori to their rivals Juventus in an interview with Sky Sports Italy. This could force the 22-year-old to leave the Serie A altogether as more and more Premier League teams show interest in him.
Reports state a fee of £40m would be what might be required which might seem high. However, given the prospect of his talent and the scenario of him playing alongside William Saliba, the fee could be called fair enough for Arsenal.
Why go for Riccardo Calafiori?
The stats for the 22-year-old speaks for itself if not anything else. His performance at Bologna very well justifies his position as a well-versed center-back. However, one could argue that Serie A is not as competitive as the Premier League but still, it can’t be ignored how good numbers this “sensational” center-back has.
Calafiori made 37 appearances for the Bologna side in which he scored two goals and provided five assists. He also completed 90% of successful passes for the side. Further, it is important to note that Calafiori plays on the front foot. This would help Arsenal control the game and put pressure on the opposition.
He also registered an impressive 1.7 interceptions, 1.6 tackles, and 2.5 clearances per league game. Moreover, the Italian made on average 6.5 ball recoveries and gave outstanding aerial challenges winning 71% of his aerial duels during his time in Serie A.
Finally, one thing is for sure. Arsenal should grab the opportunity if it came to get Riccardo Calafiori at just £40m. The duo of him and Saliba would provide an even better defensive record to the Gunners for the next season.
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