Arsenal has finalized the £42 million signing of Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna, strengthening their defensive lineup with the versatile Italian international. The 22-year-old, who can play both centre-back and left-back, has committed to a five-year contract, keeping him at the club until 2029.
Calafiori, who impressed at Euro 2024 despite Italy’s early exit, chose Arsenal over interest from Juventus, Real Madrid, and another Premier League club. His decision was solidified after extensive discussions with Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta and sporting director Edu.
“I spoke for almost two months with the coach and with Edu. They tried to convince me, but I was already really convinced to come here,” Calafiori said during Arsenal’s pre-season tour in the USA. “For me, it is the best project I can have as a player. There were other clubs, but I don’t care anymore. I’m here and I want to improve to win trophies.”
Sporting director Edu praised Calafiori’s addition, highlighting his quality and potential impact on the team. “Riccardo has consistently shown his quality for his club and country. He was one of the best players in Serie A last season, and gave strong performances for Italy in the Euros this summer,” Edu said. “He is 22 but brings quality and experience. He will quickly grow into being an Arsenal player.”
Calafiori’s signing marks Arsenal’s second major acquisition of the summer, following the £27 million transfer of goalkeeper David Raya. Calafiori’s agent, Alessandro Lucci of World Soccer Agency, facilitated the deal, ensuring a smooth transition from Bologna to Arsenal.
Calafiori’s journey began at Roma’s youth academy, where he developed for 12 years before moving to Basel in 2022. After a successful season in Switzerland, he joined Bologna in 2023, emerging as one of Serie A’s top defenders. His performances helped Bologna secure a fifth-place finish and qualify for the Champions League for the first time in 60 years.
Now at Arsenal, Calafiori is eager to contribute to the team’s success and help them compete for trophies. “I have this good feeling. I cannot explain it. But for sure, you’ll see on the pitch that it was the right choice,” he said.
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