Premier League giant Arsenal have been given a green light over the pursuit of 22-year-old Bologna defender Riccardo Calafiori.
Calafiori played a key role in helping Bologna finish fifth in Serie A last season, which secured their place in the Champions League for the upcoming campaign.
The 22-year-old centre-back continued the form at the 2024 European championship despite Italy elimination in the round of 16.
Calafiori has been linked with several clubs including Juventus, Arsenal and Liverpool but reports in Italy this week have suggested that Mikel Arteta’s side have registered the strongest interest from teams outside of Serie A.
Riccardo Calafiori of Italy in action during the UEFA EURO 2024 group stage match between Italy and Albania (Photo by Kevin Voigt/GettyImages)
The Gunners have now gotten a positive response with Bologna indicating that they will consider offers for the young defender.
Juventus have already held talks over the possible signing of Calafiori but have reportedly cooled their interest with Bologna demanding a €40 million (£33.8m) transfer fee.
Juve are said to have Arsenal’s Jakub Kiwior as an alternative signing to Calafiori.
Calafiori was signed by Bologna in a €4m (£3.3m) deal from Swiss side FC Basel last summer. He is now set to leave the club for a hefty price.
