Arsenal and Spurs enter into race for Riccardo Calafiori

Riccardo Calafiori’s impressive displays at Euro 2024 have caught the attention of Premier League giants Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur, who are now vying for the Italy defender’s signature.

The 22-year-old left-footed centre-back played a crucial role in Thiago Motta’s Bologna squad this season, helping the team secure a spot in the Champions League for the first time in six decades. His performances have not gone unnoticed, with Juventus initially leading the race to sign him.

Transfer journalist Nicolo Schira reports that Juventus had agreed on personal terms with Calafiori, offering a five-year contract worth approximately €2.5 million net per season. However, their €25 million bid was rejected by Bologna in May. The Rossoblu directors anticipated that Calafiori’s value would rise after the European Championship, a gamble that has paid off.

According to today’s Tuttosport, Calafiori has quickly become a top target for both Arsenal and Tottenham ahead of the summer transfer window. Spurs have already initiated contact with Bologna and are preparing a formal offer, while Arsenal has begun discussions with his agent, Alessandro Lucci. Bologna is hoping to secure a fee of around €50 million for the talented defender.

Calafiori’s performances at Euro 2024 have solidified his reputation as one of the tournament’s standout defenders. Despite being suspended for Italy’s Round of 16 match against Switzerland due to accumulated yellow cards, his contributions have been significant, including an assist for Mattia Zaccagni’s late equalizer against Croatia.