Former Juventus defender Leonardo Bonucci has expressed his hope that his former club could have signed Riccardo Calafiori this summer. Instead, Premier League side Arsenal is close to completing the signing of Calafiori from Italian Serie A club Bologna.
The 22-year-old Calafiori has become one of the most sought-after center-backs in the world due to his impressive performances at Bologna. Since joining from FC Basel on August 31, 2023, for a transfer fee of just €4 million, Calafiori has made 33 appearances for Bologna, scoring two goals and providing five assists.
His exceptional form earned him a spot on Italy’s national team during Euro 2024, where he played three matches and provided an assist. This has caught the attention of top European clubs, including Juventus, Liverpool, Arsenal, Real Madrid, and Chelsea.
Currently, Arsenal has won the race for Calafiori’s signature, agreeing on a €50 million deal with Bologna for the defender.
Reacting to Calafiori’s potential move to Arsenal, Bonucci praised the young Italy international. “I’m sorry about his transfer. I would have liked to see him at Juventus,” he said. “He’s a defender who’s a little different from what we’re used to seeing.”
