Arsenal Football Club has officially announced the long-term signing of Bologna’s Italian defender Riccardo Calafiori.
The 22-year-old Italy international joins the Gunners following an excellent season in Serie A, when he helped Bologna qualify for the Champions League.
The North London club confirmed the signing on Monday via their social media accounts, greeting Calafiori with a heartfelt “Benvenuto” – Italian for “Welcome”.
Football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano provided details of the deal, stating, “Official, confirmed. Riccardo Calafiori joins Arsenal from Bologna on a five-year deal.”
Calafiori’s journey to Arsenal includes stints at Roma, Genoa, and Swiss side Basel before his breakthrough season at Bologna.
Arsenal’s Sporting Director, Edu, emphasised the strategic nature of the signing, saying, “We identified Riccardo as part of our strategy to sign players who fit our profile and will reinforce our squad to compete at the highest level. He is 22 but brings quality and experience.”
Manager Mikel Arteta expressed his enthusiasm for the new addition.
“Riccardo is a big personality and character, with specific skills which will make us stronger as we push to win major trophies. He has already shown great development in recent seasons with his performances for both Bologna and Italy,” he said.
Calafiori’s performances last season earned him recognition beyond his club, as he was named Serie A Player of the Month for May 2024 and secured a place in Italy’s Euro 2024 squad.
His role in Bologna’s fifth-place finish, their best in 60 years, highlights the potential quality Arsenal are bringing to their backline.
The young defender will wear the number 33 shirt for Arsenal and has already joined his new teammates in Philadelphia as they prepare for the 2024/25 season.
