da betsson： Italy star Riccardo Calafiori has been warned off a potential Arsenal transfer by former Serie A sporting director Walter Sabatini.

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Arsenal close to completing Calafiori dealHas a contract with Bologna until 2027Sabatini wants him to snub the GunnersWHAT HAPPENED?

Arsenal's pursuit of Calafiori has been steadily progressing, with the club nearing an agreement on the transfer fee. Alessandro Lucci, Calafiori's agent, has been instrumental in negotiating the deal with the Gunners outpacing competitors like Bayer Leverkusen, Chelsea, and Juventus in the race to sign the talented defender, who is valued at €45 million (£38m/49m).

AdvertisementGetty ImagesTHE BIGGER PICTURE

Arsenal have presented Calafiori with a long-term vision that reportedly appeals to the player more than the offers from other interested clubs. He has emerged as a key player for Bologna since his transfer from Swiss side Basel last year. The defender made his national team debut in early June and played in all three of Italy's Euro 2024 group stage matches and was missed during their last-16 loss to Switzerland last week.

WHAT SABITINI SAID

In a recent interview with , as reported by TMW, Sabatini shared his concerns about Serie A losing a player of Calafiori's calibre.

"It’s a disaster when strong, young players like him leave our league," Sabatini lamented.

"€45 million as a valuation is a huge sum but the defenders are paid even more. I think it’s the minimum for someone like him: left-footed, physically imposing, authoritative and with personality in the game.

“Let’s remember what he did in the 96th minute against Croatia: he came out with the ball at his feet, ran forty meters, took on the defence and passed the ball. These are plays you only do if you have quality and courage and the courage to take risks and to execute the action is something only great players can do.”

GettyWHAT NEXT?

For Arsenal, the acquisition of Calafiori represents a strategic investment in their defensive line. The club's focus on signing young, talented players aligns with their long-term objectives to build a robust and competitive squad. The Italian could indeed become the Gunner's first summer signing in what Mikel Arteta has promised will be an "aggressive" window for the North London club.