Arsenal have finally officially announced the new contract of Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna. This is the second new player of the Gunners in the summer of 2024 after David Raya.

Calafiori makes Arsenal debut

The 22-year-old centre-back has signed a five-year contract with Arsenal for a fee of £42m, including add-ons. Calafiori will wear the number 33 shirt at Arsenal for the third season in a row.

Currently, Calafiori has joined his new teammates in the US to participate in the 2024 Summer tour. It is possible that the Italian international will make his debut for the Gunners in a friendly match against Liverpool on the morning of August 1.

Sharing the reason for choosing to join Arsenal, Calafiori said: “This is the best project for myself in the coming years. I talked a lot with the head coach, with Edu (sporting director), they convinced me, but I convinced myself. The Premier League has been my dream since I was 12 years old. I’m really excited.”

Calafiori wears number 33 shirt at Arsenal

Arsenal sporting director Edu said: “It has been a fantastic effort from the whole team to complete this transfer and we welcome Riccardo to the Arsenal family. We have identified Riccardo as part of our strategy to recruit players who fit our style of play and will strengthen our squad to compete at the highest level. He is only 22 but brings quality and experience and will develop quickly at Arsenal.”

Calafiori started his career as a left-back but has impressed as a centre-back since moving to Bologna last summer. His former club Basel will pocket a 40-50% commission when Bologna sell him to Arsenal as part of the deal.