Arsenal transfer target snapped boarding plane as announcement plans take place

Riccardo Califiori’s transfer to Arsenal appears to be on the brink of completion as the Bologna and Italy defender was spotted on a private jet en route to London.

The Gunners have been pursuing the Euro 2024 star throughout the summer, finally agreeing on a deal with Bologna worth approximately £42m this week. Bologna had been tough negotiators with Mikel Arteta’s side, aware that the player’s previous club FC Basel had arranged a 50 per cent sell-on clause.

Arsenal supporters can now look forward to the move after Fabrizio Romano shared a photo of the player travelling to the capital to undergo his medical.

Calafiori was seen grinning in a picture aboard the plane alongside his two agents Alessandro Lucci and Alessio Ceccarelli, who lead the WSA Agency.

The 22-year-old will become the second signing at the Emirates after the club secured goalkeeper David Raya on a permanent transfer following his successful loan stint from Brentford last season.

He is expected to fly out to the United States to join his new Arsenal colleagues once the formalities are finalised – with Arteta’s team currently gearing up for friendlies against Premier League adversaries Manchester United and Liverpool.

With Calafiori’s arrival almost confirmed, his addition could lead to Polish defender Jakub Kiwior departing the Emirates.

Polish defender Kiwior is reportedly set to end his 18-month spell at Arsenal, with a number of Italian clubs, including Bologna, Inter Milan and Juventus, showing interest according to Polish outlet Meczyki.

The potential departure of the versatile player, who can operate as both a centre-back and left-back, could pose a problem for Arsenal manager Arteta.

Despite having a well-stocked defence, Arsenal’s Jurrien Timber has only recently returned from a long-term injury, Tomiyasu is dealing with a knee issue that could keep him out for the entire pre-season, and Bayern Munich have shown interest in Oleksandr Zinchenko.