The Most Handsome Man is Already in the Squad!

Every summer transfer window brings a flurry of activity, and for renowned transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, it's a busy season filled with his signature "Here we go" announcements. This time, it's Arsenal fans who have reason to celebrate. According to Romano, Riccardo Calafiori is set to join Arsenal with an annual salary of €4 million. Arsenal and Bologna are in the process of exchanging documents, and Bologna has also finalized terms with Basel. Calafiori will sign a five-year contract with Arsenal (no extension option) and will undergo a medical examination in the United States to complete the deal.

The 22-year-old Calafiori, who graduated from Roma's youth academy, plays as a center-back or left-back. Last season, he played 33 matches for Bologna, scoring 2 goals and providing 5 assists. His contract with Bologna runs until 2027. This summer, Calafiori was a key defender for Italy in the European Championship, helping the team reach the Round of 16. His current market value on Transfermarkt is €45 million. According to previous reports, Calafiori's transfer fee is €40 million plus €5 million in bonuses and a sell-on clause.

The Athletic's renowned journalist David Ornstein confirms that Arsenal's deal for Calafiori is almost complete, pending only a medical examination and the final signing of the contract. The player is expected to join Arsenal's US tour. Arsenal fans are understandably excited about signing a player who combines good looks with footballing talent. Although Calafiori scored an own goal against Spain in the recently concluded European Championship, his overall performance was impressive, and his handsome appearance ensures that Italy's tradition of producing model-like footballers continues.

Statistical data highlights Calafiori's impressive offensive capabilities: Last season, he provided 5 assists in Serie A and created 14 shooting opportunities through his dribbling—4 for himself and 10 for his teammates. These figures are the highest among center-backs in the top five European leagues last season. It's no surprise that Calafiori has become a hot commodity in this transfer window, attracting interest not only from Arsenal but also from top clubs like Liverpool.

Additionally, Arsenal has informed Jakub Kiwior that he is allowed to leave the club this summer. Kiwior's contract with Arsenal runs until 2028. Last season, he played 30 matches, scoring 1 goal and providing 3 assists, with a total of 1594 minutes on the pitch. His market value on Transfermarkt is €30 million. Furthermore, the futures of Oleksandr Zinchenko, Emile Smith Rowe, Reiss Nelson, and Eddie Nketiah are also uncertain.

However, it's unlikely that Mikel Arteta will allow all of them to leave, as he prefers a deep squad with versatile players capable of playing in different positions. The transfer of Mikel Merino remains a significant possibility, with Real Sociedad valuing the player at around £30 million. Arteta has emphasized the importance of focusing on controllable factors after the journey he and his young team have experienced over the past few years. Regardless, Arsenal's transfer activity continues to make progress. Can they challenge Manchester City's dominance next season?