HALF SAD HALF HAPPY: Riccardo Calafiori brightens as complete Arsenal deal while Smith Rowe returns England to join Fuham

Ten years of development have gone; ARSENAL has announced the signing of Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna for £42million.

Following a protracted transfer controversy, the Italian defender joins the Gunners starting in Euro 2024.

ImageRiccardo Calafiori has signed for ArsenalThe defender will wear the number 33 for the GunnersThe defender will wear the number 33 for the Gunners

Excellent for Italy during the tournament, the flexible defender gave a fantastic last period for Thiago Motta’s Bologna.

Most importantly on Motta’s team, he made sure Bologna finished fifth, therefore guaranteeing Champions League football for the following year.

Calafiori signed a five-year contract with the Emirates, so improving an already outstanding back line.

Admitting he had fantasised about the move for ten years, the 22-year-old said, “It is amazing.” It was tough up until here; nevertheless, at least we are here and I am eager to train with the squad and represent the supporters.

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Since I was maybe 12 or 13, it has been my aim since I can see the calibre of the league here and the best athletes in the world, for me, play here.