Arsenal's surprise move: Calafiori's unexpected new plan revealed

Arsenal fans are on the edge of their seats as the club apparently finalizes the signing of Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna.

In a sudden turn of events, renowned journalist Fabrizio Romano revealed that Arsenal had scheduled a new plan for the Italian defender. Calafiori, 22, is set to join the Gunners in a deal worth €45 million ($48.8 million), with €40 million ($43.4 million) upfront.

Initially, Calafiori was expected to complete his medical in the United States, where Arsenal are currently on a pre-season tour.

However, Romano disclosed a late change:

"Arsenal have just scheduled new plan for Riccardo Calafiori. Understand first part of medical will take place in London with player due to travel soon. Final check in the US and then Calafiori will sign five year deal as a new Arsenal player. Here we go, confirmed."

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A bumpy road to agreement for Calafiori

The transfer has been anything but smooth. Arsenal and Bologna initially struggled to agree on the transfer fee, causing concerns that the deal might fall through.

The negotiations dragged on, with FC Basel and Bologna hashing out details over a sell-on clause. Basel, where Calafiori previously played, was entitled to a portion of the transfer fee, which complicated matters.

Adding to the drama, there's an ongoing dispute between Basel and Roma, Calafiori's former club, over another sell-on clause. This legal battle could potentially spill into the courts, though it is unlikely to affect the player's imminent move to the Premier League.

While it's uncertain if Calafiori will join Arsenal in time for their next pre-season friendly against Manchester United, his arrival seems imminent. The young defender's signing is a significant addition to Mikel Arteta's squad, as Arsenal looks to bolster their defensive options for the upcoming season.

The final medical checks in the US are expected to be a formality, completing the Italian's move to the Emirates Stadium.