Arsenal Face Riccardo Calafiori Transfer Setback as Bologna Chief Provides Update

Arsenal has identified Riccardo Calafiori as their top target for the summer transfer window, but negotiations with Bologna have hit a snag. The Italian international’s move to the Gunners is stalling as Arsenal struggles to meet Bologna's £42 million valuation.

Bologna’s chief executive has recently quashed hopes of an imminent deal for Calafiori, leaving Arsenal fans disappointed. Mikel Arteta, who has made Calafiori a priority, now faces a significant hurdle in securing the defender's services.

The only confirmed senior signing for Arsenal this window is the expected permanent return of goalkeeper David Raya. Despite optimism earlier in the week that a deal for Calafiori was close, Bologna CEO Claudio Fenucci has stated there are no developments regarding the transfer.

Fenucci addressed the media after a Serie A club executives meeting on Friday, confirming the lack of progress in negotiations. Juventus, who had previously shown interest in Calafiori, have withdrawn due to the high price tag, and Fenucci confirmed they are no longer in contention.

According to the Evening Standard, Calafiori will return to Bologna for their pre-season training camp. Arsenal’s latest bid falls £8 million short of Bologna's asking price, prolonging the transfer saga.

Calafiori is eager to join Arsenal and work under Arteta, but patience is required as Bologna has instructed him to report to their training camp in South Tyrol. Meanwhile, Arsenal will be heading to the United States for their pre-season tour, hoping to eventually integrate their top target into the squad before the Premier League season begins.

The financial aspect of the deal is complicated by Basel, Calafiori’s former club, which is entitled to 50% of any transfer fee Bologna receives. This financial burden is one reason why Bologna is firm on their £42 million demand. As Arteta focuses on pre-season preparations, he remains committed to improving the team and is determined to secure Calafiori.

“There are margins everywhere, and some of them can be tiny but can have a huge impact, but others are really big. First of all, we have to continue to do all the right things that we are doing in a consistent way, and if we can, do them a bit better," Arteta said. "That’s the first part. Then the other one is ok, what are the other areas we can still improve and go for them and simplify everything we do in a really efficient way. Some people say you have to work a little bit more efficiently, I think we are going to try to work harder and be more efficient. That’s the objective.