Calafiori: Arsenal and Tottenham ready to fight for Italian starlet

Riccardo Calafiori has shone on the international stage during Euro 2024, prompting Arsenal and Tottenham to move for the Italian defender.

The 22-year-old left-footed centre-back has played a leading role in Thiago Motta’s Bologna side this season, helping the team reach the Champions League for the first time in six decades. His work caught the attention of Juventus, who tried to beat out their rivals for his signature.

Juventus agreed personal terms with Calafiori, a five-year contract worth around €2.5 million per season, but their €25 million offer to Bologna was rejected in May. Rossoblu’s management knew that its value could increase after the European Championship, and their patience paid off.

North London Derby for Calafiori

Page 5 of today’s Tuttosport details how Calafiori has quickly become a top target for Arsenal and Tottenham ahead of the summer transfer window and both Premier League clubs have already started making moves.

Spurs have been in contact with Bologna and are preparing to make a move, while the Gunners have started testing the waters with his agent Alessandro Lucci. Bologna are hoping to secure a fee of around €50 million for the talented 22-year-old.