"He has got a bit of Sergio Ramos" - Pundit heaps praise on Arsenal target as move edges closer
Pundit Tony Cascarino has heaped on Riccardo Calafiori, who is reportedly edging closer to a move to Arsenal. He compared the Italian's playing style to legendary defender Sergio Ramos' style.
As per transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the Gunners have reached an agreement for Calafiori with Bologna. The fee is expected to be €40 million + €5 million add-ons and sell-on clause. The Italian side just need to finalise their sell-on terms with FC Basel before the move is completed.
It appears that Calafiori will move to the Emirates next season and Cascarino believes it will be a good signing for Arsenal. He said on talkSPORT (via TBR Football):
“He has got it all, he has got it all. Honestly. He’s really composed, but he has got a bit of (Sergio) Ramos in him as well, but not as bad as Ramos, who was quite a bit forceful in the way he defended, would foul a bit. He has got a bit of that.
“He gets on the ball, he can find passes really easy, You can play him in a three, you can play him in a two, he’s really versatile, and I think it’s a great addition for Arsenal.”
Calafiori had an excellent 2023-24 season with Bologna, making 37 appearances and helping them qualify for the UEFA Champions League. He then also impressed with Italy at Euro 2024 despite their Round of 16 elimination against Switzerland.
Ligue 1 side interested in signing Arsenal star: Reports
As per Fabrizio Romano, Olympique Marseille are interested in signing Eddie Nketiah and have also sent Arsenal an initial proposal.
Nketiah joined the Gunners' U18 side from Chelsea Youth in 2015. He's made 168 senior appearances for the north London side since then, scoring 38 goals and providing seven assists. He also spent six months on loan at Leeds in 2019.
He has, however, fallen in the pecking order behind Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz. He started just 13 games across competitions last season, registering six goals and three assists in his overall 37 appearances.
Mikel Arteta's side are now looking to sell him this summer and as per TBR Football, they value him at £50 million. They are unlikely to get that price though despite his contract expiring in 2027.