Arsenal have officially announced the signing of Italian defender Riccardo Calafiori from Serie A side Bologna for £42 million. The highly anticipated transfer marks a significant move for the club as they bolster their defensive lineup.
The 22-year-old Calafiori has agreed to a five-year contract with Arsenal and will join the team as they embark on their pre-season tour in the United States. His impressive performances during Euro 2024 and a standout season with Bologna, where he played a crucial role in securing a fifth-place finish and a Champions League spot, drew considerable attention.
His exceptional form and potential caught the eye of Arsenal, culminating in a prolonged transfer saga that has now concluded with his move to the Emirates Stadium.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta expressed enthusiasm about the new addition, stating, “We welcome Riccardo and his family to Arsenal. He is a great signing and gives us huge strength to reinforce our defence. Riccardo is a big personality and character, with specific skills which will make us stronger as we push to win major trophies.”
Calafiori will wear the number 33 shirt at Arsenal, a number previously worn by notable players such as Petr Cech and Arthur Okwonko.
His career began at Roma, and he has had stints at Genoa and Basel before making a significant impact at Bologna, which eventually led to this high-profile transfer.
