The Gunners confirmed a major signing in the shape of Italian Riccardo Calafiori on Monday, but their work will not end there. The £40million deal will prove to be the first incoming outfield player of the summer for Mikel Arteta.
Arsenal have already converted David Raya's loan into a permanent deal and signed young Ajax goalkeeper Tommy Setford. Edu is still in the search to add a midfielder and forward to the north London squad too.
With Emile Smith Rowe expected to soon depart, and Jakub Kiwior's future up in the air following Calafiori's arrive, a busy few weeks are ahead. Mirror Football takes a look at some of the latest transfer news around the Emirates.
Clause change
Arsenal could see any attempt to sign Sporting CP forward Viktor Gyokeres boosted after the Portuguese side appeared to prepare for his departure. The Swedish striker joined the side from Coventry City 12 months ago and enjoyed a stunning debut season as he bagged 43 goals.
Coventry are said to have negotiated a 15 per cent sell-on clause into the deal they made in 2023, after already raking in £20million for the player. The Sky Blues would be afforded a tidy sum should Sporting see their charge's £86m release clause triggered.
Record report that Sporting have now triggered an agreement that sees them pay a fee to reduce that percentage. It would see the Lisbon-based team owe 10 per cent instead.
Calafiori deal confirmed
Arteta hailed new signing Calafiori as one that will immediately help them win trophies. The Italian international's move was confirmed on Monday night, with the player now joining up with his new team-mates on the tour of America.
“We welcome Riccardo and his family to Arsenal. He is a great signing and gives us huge strength to reinforce our defence," Arteta said.
“Riccardo is a big personality and character, with specific skills which will make us stronger as we push to win major trophies. He has already shown great development in recent seasons with his performances for both Bologna and Italy, with his progression and development in the past year being really impressive.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta with new signing Riccardo Calafiori
“We’re looking forward to working with Riccardo, integrating him into the squad, and supporting him in the years to come.”
Calafiori will wear the number 33 for the Gunners and could make his debut when they face Liverpool in the early hours of Wednesday morning.
Arsenal face competition free agent
The Gunners are said to have considered a move for former Barcelona star Sergi Roberto. The versatile 32-year-old is without a club after leaving the Nou Camp this summer after a 14-year senior career with the Catalan club.
Arsenal have reportedly reached out to his representatives, and Roberto is intrigued by the prospect of a move to the Premier League. That said, terms are said to have been agreed with Barca who have asked for more time before making any new deal official as they organise their finances.
Arteta's side will face competition from Ajax however, who have a 'genuine' interest as Roberto considers his options.
0 Comments