Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta shared that defender Riccardo Calafiori was eager to join the club immediately after their initial conversation.
The 22-year-old versatile Italian defender signed from Bologna for a fee that could rise to £42m with add-ons. He quickly integrated with his new teammates in Philadelphia ahead of a pre-season match against Liverpool on Wednesday.
When asked what stood out about Calafiori, Arteta highlighted the defender’s strong desire to join Arsenal despite interest from other clubs.
“It was great when I spoke to him one or two times and that was when I didn’t know if we could do it or not,” he said at Philadelphia’s Union’s Subaru Park.
“He was adamant – ‘Let me know when you are ready, my bags are ready and I just want to come to Arsenal’. Those were his words.
“When you have that feeling with a willingness and determination to make us better. We should be really proud of that.”
Arteta said Calafiori would not be rushed to play against Liverpool at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia but could be available to play “a few minutes”.
This in the city made famous by fictional boxing champion Rocky ‘the Italian Stallion’ Balboa, with Calafiori saying he hopes to see the famous Rocky steps and statue, before going on to explain why he moved to Emirates Stadium.
“I spoke for almost two months with the coach and [sporting director] Edu,” Calafiori said.
“It was really tough [that the negotiations took a while]. But I am here and need to keep improving day by day in training. I was really convinced to come here. For me, it is the best project that I could have to improve as a player.
“There were other clubs but I don’t care any more. I am here and I want to win trophies. This is the best project because the team is young and can win trophies. My mentality is to win.
“I can play in different positions, I don’t care where but I just want to play. I was here in January to watch Arsenal versus Crystal Palace. As soon as I am really fit, I hope to help the team.”
Midfielder Emile Smith Rowe missed training as he travels to finalize his £34m transfer to Fulham.
Arteta declined to discuss the deal, which is still in the works, but mentioned that Arsenal’s incoming transfers are nearly complete.
“We have already identified where we need to improve, in meetings in February and March,” he said.
“If we can, we will try to strengthen the team. But so far I am really happy with what I have.
“We don’t expect to do anything like [a big Declan Rice deal] at the moment.”
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