Riccardo Calafiori of Italy is a wanted man in the Premier League (Image: Getty Images)
Bologna are reportedly ready to welcome Premier League offers for their star defender Riccardo Calafiori following his impressive performance in the European Championships. The Italian international centre-back has caught the attention of Arsenal and Juventus, among others.
However, Bologna, still smarting from Juve’s poaching of boss Thiago Motta, would prefer to sell to an English club. Arsenal have already expressed interest in Calafiori, but their pursuit may hinge on the future of Jakub Kiwior, who is also on Juventus and AC Milan’s radar.
Calafiori has spent most of this season playing as a centre-back, although he has previously played at left-back for both Roma and FC Basel.
Calafiori arrives at Hemberg-Stadion prior to the Italy training (Image: Getty Images for FIGC)
Liverpool’s new sporting director, Richard Hughes, is known to be a fan of the 22 year old player, having followed his career during his tenure at Bournemouth. Importantly, Liverpool are reportedly on the hunt for a left-footed centre-back this summer.
Chelsea are also looking to bolster their defence, although any move for Calafiori would likely necessitate a departure. Levi Colwill is not on the market, while offers for Benoit Badiashile may still be entertained.
West Ham have also joined the growing list of admirers for the Italian player. Bologna, resigned to losing the young Azzurri star, will demand a hefty fee, expected to exceed £40million, as Basel are entitled to 40% of any sale over £5m.
Despite rumours, Real Madrid are not believed to be interested at this point.
Bologna’s sporting director, Marco Di Vaio, is hopeful that Calafiori’s performances in Germany will increase his market value.
He remarked amid rampant rumours: “It is confirmation that Bologna is working well and doing the right things. It is not a surprise to us.
“We know Calafiori well and we have been following him for years. The European Championships will have a significant boost on his value but the intention is to keep all of our players, including Calafiori.”
Juventus remain the top contenders and are seen as the heavy favourites, yet Bologna is set to give them a run for their money, having also received an enquiry from Nottingham Forest for defender Murillo.
If Juve can strike a deal with Bologna over the transfer fee, personal terms with Calafiori are expected to be straightforward.
With a contract at Bologna until the summer of 2028, there’s no rush to sell, ensuring any deal will be on Bologna’s terms.
Source: https://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/1917191/Arsenal-Liverpool-transfer-riccardo-calafiori