Arsenal in talks with Bologna over Calafiori deal
After a week of intense speculation, reliable media sources like Fabrizio Romano confirm that Arsenal have opened talks with Bologna over a deal for Calafiori.
Arsenal placing bid to sign £200,000-per-week forward alongside Calafiori
The 22-year-old was pivotal for Bologna last season and helped the Serie A side qualify for next season's Champions League. His talents were also evident on the international stage at Euro 2024 - standing out as one of Italy's best-performing players during the tournament before they went out to Switzerland in the last 16.
Calafiori could cost as much as £42 million to prise away from Bologna this summer, but that hasn't deterred Gunners sporting director Edu, with Arsenal expected to make a formal bid for the ex-FC Basel starlet.
How Calafiori & Gabriel compare in 2023/24
Statistics
Calafiori
Gabriel
Games
29
34
Goals & assists
7
4
Progressive carries
28
13
Pass accuracy
90%
89%
Tackles won
37
28
Interceptions
56
31
Aerials won
71%
55%
Stats via FBref
Indeed, Edu could be about to make an offer to sign Calafiori after already getting the defender's green-light in regard to personal terms. Romano, taking to X this week, stated that formal club-to-club negotiations are now underway.
The defender can operate as both a centre-back and left-back, which could make him appealing to Arteta asCalafiori would come in and reinforce multiple positions in the Spaniard's squad.
If they manage to get a deal over the line, amid stiff competition from Chelsea, attention will then turn to which attackers they could bring through the door. Arsenal are widely reported to be targeting a winger and striker, with both Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams and Napoli star Victor Osimhen on Edu's radar.
Saka dazzled with 20 goals and 14 assists in all competitions for Arsenal last season, but Arteta is apparently seeking an alternative back-up.
Arsenal eyeing Edon Zhegrova to alternate with Saka
According to Football Transfers, Lille winger Edon Zhegrova is in Arsenal's thinking when it comes to new additions who could provide a different option on that side.
The Kosovo international scored 12 goals and racked up 10 assists over 47 appearances in all competitions last campaign, and it is believed Arsenal view Zhegrova as potential cover for Saka on the right wing.
edon-zhegrova-arsenal-premier-league
While there are no formal talks ongoing with Lille, it is believed the 25-year-old is looking to leave the club, which could work in Arteta's favour. Other reports have claimed that Zhegrova could cost around £17 million, which is affordable from Arsenal's perspective
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