Arsenal’s Move for Italy International Riccardo Calafiori Delayed Due to Bologna-Basel Dispute

Arsenal's move for Riccardo Calafiori has hit a snag due to a dispute between Bologna and the Italian defender's former club, FC Basel, as reported by Italian sources.

Arsenal’s Transfer Plans and Calafiori as a Target

In their quest to strengthen the squad and challenge for the Premier League title, Arsenal is targeting reinforcements in defense, midfield, and attack. Manager Mikel Arteta has identified Riccardo Calafiori as a key defensive target. The Gunners have been in negotiations with Bologna for the 22-year-old Italian international.

Dispute Over Sell-On Clause

The deal for Calafiori has been delayed due to a disagreement over a sell-on clause between Bologna and Basel. Calafiori, who had a standout season under Thiago Motta at Bologna, was expected to follow his former manager to Juventus. He also impressed at Euro 2024, despite Italy’s early exit in the round of 16 against Switzerland.

Agreed Terms and Transfer Fee

Arsenal has reportedly agreed on personal terms with Calafiori and a transfer fee with Bologna, set at an initial £33.5 million plus £4.5 million in add-ons. However, the deal is currently held up because Basel is demanding 50% of the transfer fee, citing a sell-on clause from when they sold Calafiori to Bologna last summer.

Current Status and Future Steps

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Bologna and Basel have not communicated for five days, and Bologna considers the sell-on clause unfair, given Calafiori’s brief tenure at Basel. Bologna is attempting to renegotiate the terms. Meanwhile, Calafiori is expected to join Bologna’s pre-season training camp by the end of the week, while Arsenal embarks on their American tour on July 21st, hoping to finalize the deal soon.