Arsenal Contemplates Riccardo Calafiori Amid Juventus Interest in Jakub Kiwior

Arsenal Contemplates Riccardo Calafiori Amid Juventus Interest in Jakub Kiwior

Arsenal is closely monitoring Riccardo Calafiori as potential interest grows in securing his signature this summer.

The 22-year-old has emerged as a target for several clubs following his impressive performances for Italy during Euro 2024.

Arsenal is considering bolstering their defensive options, looking to provide competition and cover for William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes.

Meanwhile, Juventus has shown interest in Jakub Kiwior, who joined Arsenal for £20 million but is now rumored to be on the exit path.

Juventus is reportedly considering a deal involving Arthur Melo, a former Liverpool player, plus cash in exchange for the Polish international.

There’s speculation that Arsenal might be willing to part ways with Kiwior to facilitate a move for Calafiori. According to The Telegraph, Arsenal’s recruitment team has been impressed by the Italian defender.

Bologna’s technical director, Giovanni Sartori, has acknowledged potential interest and hinted at a possible sale.

“We’ll attempt to retain him at this stage,” Sartori commented. “However, if significant offers arise, we’ll have to consider them.

While the president prefers to keep the entire squad intact, we’ll assess our options. I doubt he’ll move to Juventus, potentially another market, but we aim to retain him.”

Despite Juventus’ interest, Bologna seems hesitant to facilitate a transfer that would benefit their domestic rivals. “I don’t foresee him joining Juventus; he’s more likely to move elsewhere,” Sartori added.

Calafiori’s market value has reportedly risen from £34 million to £43 million due to heightened interest, with his former club Basel entitled to 40% of any transfer fee should a deal materialize, as reported by Italian publication Gazzetta.