Arsenal are on the verge of signing Italy centre-back Riccardo Calafiori, with a deal expected to be finalised in the coming days for around €50 million plus add-ons. In a twist, this transfer could see Jakob Kiwior heading to Bologna.
CaughtOffside reports that during negotiations for Calafiori, Bologna inquired about acquiring Kiwior. With Calafiori’s arrival, Kiwior is likely to become surplus to requirements at Arsenal, prompting the Gunners to consider selling him this summer.
Bologna, in need of a replacement for Calafiori at left central defence, sees Kiwior as a fitting candidate. Kiwior, who previously played in Serie A with Spezia from 2021 to 2023 before joining Arsenal, appears to be a viable option for the Italian club.
However, any deal for Kiwior would be separate from Calafiori’s transfer and not an official swap. Since moving to the Emirates in January 2023, Kiwior has made 38 appearances and scored two goals.
Arsenal began discussions with Bologna about Calafiori, following a recommendation from Italian teammate Jorginho. Jorginho personally endorsed his Italy teammate to Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta. Bologna demanded over €50 million for Calafiori, a sum Arsenal are prepared to meet.
Calafiori has agreed on personal terms with Arsenal, committing to a contract until 2029 worth €4 million annually. Arsenal managed to secure the 22-year-old’s signature over interest from top clubs like Real Madrid, Chelsea, Bayer Leverkusen, and Juventus. Despite Juventus being favourites and having agreed on personal terms with Calafiori, Bologna preferred not to sell to their Serie A rivals.
Additionally, Calafiori’s former club, Basel, stands to receive a 40-50% sell-on fee from this transfer.
Calafiori had an outstanding 2023-24 season, contributing significantly to Bologna’s surprise qualification for the Champions League. The modern centre-back, known for his pressing, game reading, ball distribution, and aerial prowess, was instrumental in Bologna’s success.
Converted from a left-back to a centre-back by former Bologna manager Thiago Motta, now Juventus boss, Calafiori also shone in the Euro 2024 group stage, notably assisting Mattia Zaccagni’s late equaliser for Italy against Croatia.
