Bologna manager drops huge update on Arsenal's interest in Riccardo Calafiori

Bologna manager Vincenzo Italiano has confirmed Riccardo Calafiori is closing in on a transfer to Arsenal.

The Gunners have been leading the race for Calafiori's signature ever since Italy's exit from Euro 2024, but had to overcome a lengthy battle over Bologna's asking price and even the threat of a legal issue between the defender's former employers.

However, it was finally revealed on Wednesday that a formal agreement had been reached between Arsenal and Bologna over Calafiori, who was left out of the Italian side's pre-season squad amid the uncertainty over his future.

After Bologna's 2-0 win over Bressanone, Italiano provided a crucial update on the future of his star centre-back.

"Calafiori's situation is now clear," Italiano told Sky Sport Italy, confirming the 22-year-old's imminent move to Arsenal.

Tune in to 90min's YouTube channel as Harry Symeou gets the expert lowdown on Riccardo Calafiori from Italian football journalist Alessandro Eremiti.

Calafiori is expected to join up with Arsenal's pre-season squad in the United States to put the finishing touches on his move to the Gunners.

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta, however, did his best to keep a lid on the situation.

"There is no update," he told the media after Arsenal's pre-season victory over Bournemouth. "As soon as we have something to say we will say. You know I don't like talking about external players."

A fee of around £42m is believed to have been agreed with Bologna, who lose between 40% and 50% of that fee to former employers Basel as part of a sell-on clause agreed when they signed him last summer.

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