Arsenal nearing deal for Italy defender Calafiori

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Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has stated that the club is aiming to strengthen “certain positions” as they near the signing of Italy defender Riccardo Calafiori.

Speaking in Los Angeles at the beginning of Arsenal’s three-match tour in the United States, Arteta mentioned there was “no update” on the deal for the 22-year-old Bologna player, who is valued at around £34m.

However, sources indicate that talks are progressing well and are expected to reach a positive conclusion.

Additionally, Arsenal is looking to bolster their central midfield as they aim to improve on their previous two seasons, where they finished second to Manchester City.

“We have to,” said the Gunners boss, when asked if his side have to improve despite two almost flawless seasons. “When you are so close you want to grab it.

“Perfection in this league requires different standards when you relate that word to winning the Premier League and that is what we have to do.

“There is still a lot of time left in the window and while that is more a question for the board, obviously we know there are certain positions that we want to improve and give the squad better resources in terms of numbers but the main thing is to focus on falling in love with the players we have.”

Arsenal’s players are returning for pre-season in phases.

After their matches against Bournemouth, Manchester United, and Liverpool, the team will return to London. Some players, including Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka, will join later due to their involvement in Euro 2024, which concluded for England on 14 July.

One of the tournament’s standout moments was Saka scoring in the penalty shootout victory over Switzerland in the quarter-finals, redeeming his previous penalty miss in the final defeat by Italy in the prior tournament.

“I was very nervous,” said Arteta. “What happened a few years ago plays back in your mind but he showed a lot of guts and determination and composure to take it the way he did.

“Bukayo’s role is constantly growing and evolving, he is a super important player for us and one of the main players for the national team.”