Arsenal Transfer News: Riccardo Calafiori joins the Gunners on five-year deal

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Arsenal have made their second first-team signing of the season as Italian centre back Riccardo Calafiori joined the club on Monday (July 29).

The Gunners confirmed the signing of the talented defender, who is going to bolster their backline ahead of the season. Calafiori has joined David Raya as the latest recruit of the North London club.

Born in Rome, he began his career at Roma, signing a professional contract in 2018. Recognised early for his talent, The Guardian named him one of the best footballers born after 2002 in 2019. He debuted for Roma's first team in 2020 and scored his first professional goal in the Europa League that same year.

Calafiori's journey saw him loaned to Genoa before joining Basel in 2022, where he played 34 matches. His next move was to Bologna, where he had an impressive season. He helped Bologna achieve the third-best defensive record in Serie A and qualify for the Champions League for the first time in decades.

On the international stage, Calafiori has represented Italy at various youth levels and made his senior debut during a pre-Euro 2024 warm-up game. He played in three of Italy's four matches in the tournament, providing a crucial assist during the group stage.

Calafiori was linked with Arsenal for a long time and the player finally got the move completed. He has joined his teammates in USA for the pre-season tour and is poised to play in their next friendly against Liverpool. The Italian will wear the no. 33 shirt at the club.