Arsenal Approaching Deal for Italy's Riccardo Calafiori

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed the club's ongoing efforts to reinforce "certain positions" as they advance towards signing Italian defender Riccardo Calafiori. The 22-year-old Bologna player, who has a valuation of approximately £34 million, is expected to join Arsenal soon.

During Arsenal's tour of the United States, which began in Los Angeles with three scheduled matches, Arteta informed reporters that there was "no update" on Calafiori's transfer. Despite this, sources indicate that negotiations are progressing positively.

In addition to Calafiori, Arsenal is also focusing on strengthening their central midfield. Arteta emphasized the need for improvement to surpass their performance in the previous two seasons, where they finished second behind Manchester City. “We have to,” Arteta said regarding the necessity to improve. “When you are so close you want to grab it. Perfection in this league requires different standards when you relate that word to winning the Premier League and that is what we have to do.”

Arteta acknowledged that the transfer window still has time left, and while the decision ultimately lies with the board, he noted the importance of enhancing the squad's depth. He added that the primary focus is on valuing the current players.

Arsenal players are returning for pre-season in phases. Following their matches against Bournemouth, Manchester United, and Liverpool, players like Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka, who recently completed their Euro 2024 campaign with England, will join the squad later. Saka, who scored during the penalty shootout victory over Switzerland in the quarter-finals, has recovered from previous tournament setbacks.

Arteta praised Saka's performance, stating, “I was very nervous. What happened a few years ago plays back in your mind but he showed a lot of guts and determination and composure to take it the way he did.” He further highlighted Saka's growing importance, noting, “Bukayo's role is constantly growing and evolving, he is a super important player for us and one of the main players for the national team.”