Bologna have requested Riccardo Calafiori to join pre-season training as negotiations with Arsenal have reached an impasse. The two clubs are at odds over a €10 million difference between the offer and Bologna’s valuation of the player.
Initially, a deal seemed to be in place for €54 million, but this figure apparently included numerous add-ons and performance-related bonuses. Sky Sport Italia and Goal Italia report that Bologna, however, is seeking a higher guaranteed fee for the 22-year-old defender.
Complicating matters is FC Basel’s right to 40 percent of any sell-on fee, as per the agreement when they sold Calafiori to Bologna for just €4 million a year ago. Since then, Calafiori’s value has significantly increased, particularly after his impressive performances for Italy at EURO 2024.
Given these factors, Bologna is demanding at least €50 million in cash, plus additional bonuses, to part ways with Calafiori. The Italian club is prepared to retain the talented defender if their valuation is not met.
Bologna’s new coach, Vincenzo Italiano, has invited Calafiori to participate in pre-season training. This move suggests that the club is comfortable with the prospect of keeping the player if Arsenal fails to meet their asking price.
