Calafiori: Arsenal and Tottenham ready to fight for Italy starlet

Rome: Riccardo Calafiori has shined on the international stage at Euro 2024, prompting Arsenal and Tottenham to move forward for the Italy defender.

The 22-year-old left-footed centre back played a leading role in Thiago Motta’s Bologna squad this season, doing his part as the team reached the Champions League for the first time in six decades. His work attracted 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 €2.5m net per season, but their €25m offer to Bologna was rejected back in May. The Rossoblu directors knew his value could increase after the European Championship, and their patience has paid off.

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

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