Arsenal have signed Italian defender Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna on a “long-term contract,” the Premier League club announced on Monday.
While the transfer fee remains undisclosed, British media reports indicate that the 22-year-old has joined the Emirates Stadium on a five-year deal worth £42 million ($54 million), following his participation with Italy at Euro 2024.
“We welcome Riccardo and his family to Arsenal,” said Gunners manager Mikel Arteta. “He is a great signing and gives us huge strength to reinforce our defence.
“Riccardo is a big personality and character, with specific skills which will make us stronger as we push to win major trophies.
“He has already shown great development in recent seasons with his performances for both Bologna and Italy, with his progression and development in the past year being really impressive.
“We’re looking forward to working with Riccardo, integrating him into the squad and supporting him in the years to come.”
Calafiori becomes Arsenal’s second major signing of the summer transfer window, following the permanent transfer of David Raya from Brentford.
The Gunners aim to improve upon their previous season, where they finished just two points behind Premier League champions Manchester City.