Arsenal Transfer News: Serie A Defender Linked By Italian Press, Ajax Eye Gunners Full-Back

By The Editor
on 4th July 2024

Arsenal’s transfer window looks to be heating up…

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Arsenal are reportedly closing in on a deal to sign Bologna defender Riccardo Calafiori for €50 million as our summer business ramps up, Sky Italy reports.

The club were extremely quiet last month in terms of movement in the window, though that was to be expected for a few reasons. While players being away on international duty hasn’t helped, clubs have also been mindful to not fall foul to the various FFP rules ahead of June’s accounting deadline.

Now, with Italy eliminated from the European Championships following a defeat to Switzerland, players across the continent will now focus on clearing up their future plans.

Calafiori was one of the stars in the Italian team and at the age of 22, it is clear to see why Mikel Arteta would be interested in a player with his qualities.

However, given how strong we are defensively and the squad currently boasting a healthy number of defensive options, allocating significant resources to another defender seems odd.

Also, a large portion of reports stating that our interest in Calafiori is real – and advanced – is emanating from Italy which raise suspicion as to who those reports favour.

I remain skeptical on that one…

Elsewhere Sky Sports News report that Ajax are ‘considering a move’ for full-back Nuno Tavares who’s fresh off a loan spell at Nottingham Forest.

With just 12 months left on his current deal – though Arsenal have an option to extend – playing regular football is key for the Portuguese international.

It’s time to make a decision on Tavares and he does strike as someone who’d flourish in the Eredivise.