Arsenal reaches 'agreement' over Riccardo Calafiori fee after Liverpool transfer links

Arsenal have reportedly reached an agreement with Bologna to sign Italian defender Riccardo Calafiori. The Gunners are set to shell out nearly $52million (£40million) for the player after both clubs agreed on a payment structure.

Calafiori had already agreed personal terms weeks ago and is expected to ink a five-year deal at the Emirates Stadium. However, progress was slow despite Italy's early exit from Euro 2024, as Bologna sought a favorable deal due to their hefty sell-on clause.

Liverpool was linked with a move for the defender after his impressive performances at Euro 2024 but is not believed to have made an official approach.

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Bologna will owe Calafiori's former club Basel half of the fee they receive. According to Fabrizio Romano, this is now the only remaining obstacle before the transfer is finalized.

The reported fee for Calafiori is believed to be $44m (£34m) plus a further $5.4m ($4.2m) in add-ons. He will be Arsenal's second summer signing following the permanent move of David Raya after his loan spell last season.

With Calafiori's arrival, Jakub Kiwior could potentially leave the Emirates Stadium. Italian clubs are showing interest in the Poland international who is eager to continue his development but may see less game time with Calafiori joining as competition.

After much negotiation, things seem to be moving forward for Arsenal. It is claimed that Calafiori's agent, Alessandro Lucci, has been instrumental recently, discussing the deal behind the scenes and holding positive talks.

Arsenal are eager to finalize the signing of Calafiori as soon as possible. Currently, he is training individually with a personal coach, as seen in videos posted online, but his aim is to arrive in north London promptly to settle in before the pre-season tour of America.

Liverpool.com says: Calafiori caught the eye at Euro 2024 and it appears Arsenal has a real player on its hands. There was reported interest from Liverpool and he certainly fits the bill in terms of what Arne Slot would look for from a defender. It appears he will be wearing the red of Arsenal though next season.