Riccardo Calafiori has been heavily linked with a switch to the Emirates Stadium. (Image: Getty)
Riccardo Calafiori’s move to Arsenal from Serie A outfit Bologna has reportedly hit a roadblock with fears the deal could now stall starting to grow.
One of the standout performers at Euro 2024, Calafiori’s dashing physique and dynamic playing style caught the eyes of football fans, with Arsenal springing a big-money move for the 22-year-old.
It was a deal that looked all but done, with only the formalities left to complete between the two parties. Except, that’s no longer the case, with reports from Italy suggesting Arsenal have encountered a problem in their pursuit of the talented defender.
It’s suggested by La Gazzetta dello Sport that Bologna have pulled the handbrake on the move for now, as they look to negotiate a sell-on clause that was inserted in Calafiori’s contract when he joined from FC Basel.
The Swiss outfit are believed to have a 50 per cent sell-on clause, which would see Bologna miss out on around half of the money they bring in for the Italian’s signature.
It’s created somewhat of an impasse, as well as forcing Bologna to increase their valuation, which is reported by Fabrizio Romano to be in excess of £40million.
Bologna claim Calafiori joined them as a relatively unknown entity and his performances for the Emilia-Romagna outfit is what led to interest from top clubs across Europe, like Arsenal, taking an interest.
Bologna believe they shouldn't pay the 50 per cent sell on clause for Riccardo Calafiori. (Image: Getty)
The Serie A side qualified for the Champions League last season, but despite the added riches on offer, they remain hellbent on squeezing as much cash as they can out of Calafiori’s departure.
In fact, their work with the former Roma academy product earned Calafiori a call-up to the Italian squad for Euro 2024, where he featured in all three group stage matches, before sitting out their round-of-16 defeat to Switzerland because of suspension.
It’s mooted talks between Bologna and Basel had been taking place, but any progress in finding an answer doesn’t appear to be forthcoming, as such negotiations are believed to have broken down.
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Calafiori’s heart has already set on a move to north London, and the player himself is said to be pushing hard for a solution that will see him link up with Arsenal ahead of the 2024/25 campaign.
Arteta and co. will start their pursuit of a first Premier League triumph in over two decades at home to Wolves on August 17, before a tricky trip to Villa Park to face Aston Villa the following week.
