Arsenal now want to agree deal for £42.3m aerial monster, PL move ‘most likely’ – report | OneFootball

Arsenal have firmly entered the race to sign Bologna defender Riccardo Calafiori in the last few hours, according to Calciomercato.

The London giants have been fancied to strengthen their backline this summer. They are currently eyeing a left-footed option, who can play in central defence or at left-back.

Calafiori has emerged as a top target in recent days and Calciomercato report that the club have firmly entered the pursuit of his services, especially ‘in the last few hours’.

Bologna don’t want to sell him to Juventus and the Premier League is the ‘most likely’ destination. They will hold out for £42.3m as Basel are owed 50 percent of the sell-on fee.

Next week could be decisive regarding Calafiori’s future.

Arsenal have fantastic chance to sign Calafiori

Calafiori has developed into one of the best ball-playing defenders in Italy.

The 22-year-old had an impressive debut season at Bologna where he completed 90 percent of his passes. He also won 71 per cent of his aerial duels with 6.5 recoveries and 2.5 clearances per game.

The Italian also registered 1.6 tackles and 1.7 interceptions on average. He was also effective higher up the field with two goals and five assists. In our view, he would be a fabulous signing for Arsenal.

Calafiori can comfortably play in central defence or at left-back. His ball-playing skills and aerial presence would make him an upgrade on the likes of Jakub Kiwior and Oleksandr Zinchenko at left-back.

The asking price is on the higher side from Bologna, but Arsenal could still proceed to sign him to boost their league title prospects next term.

His arrival could pave the way for the departure of Kiwior, who has not been entirely convincing. He has looked vulnerable against direct runners.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com