"He has this presence on the pitch" - Martin Odegaard raves about Riccardo Calafiori's performances in Arsenal training sessions
Arsenal star Martin Odegaard was full of praise for the team's new signing Riccardo Calafiori. The Gunners midfielder stated that he was looking forward to playing alongside the Italian on the field, praising his physical nature in the training sessions.
Speaking to Hayters TV, he said:
“I think everyone saw straight away in training that he’s a top player and a top defender, physical. You know he has this presence on the pitch and I’m sure he’s going to give us a lot, so happy to have him on board looking forward to seeing more from him.”
Calafiori completed a move to Arsenal from Serie A side Bologna for a reported £42 million fee. He signed a five-year contract and could prove to be a valuable option across the backline for Mikel Arteta.
He impressed for Thiago Motta's side in the Italian first division last season as they finished in the Champions League places. He made 37 appearances across all competitions, scoring twice and setting up five more.
The Gunners had an impressive backline last season, leading the Premier League in clean sheets. They boast a resolute central defensive pairing of Gabriel Magalhaes and William Saliba along with Ben White at right-back. Calafiori's versatility means he could play at left-back and also at centre-back should Arteta feel the need to rotate.
Arsenal dealt blow as midfield target agrees personal terms with Barcelona
Arsenal have received a setback in their pursuit of RB Leipzig midfielder Dani Olmo. According to Fabrizio Romano, the 26-year-old has reached an agreement on personal terms with Barcelona.
This comes after a report from TBR Football that claimed that multiple Premier League teams, including the Gunners and Chelsea, were exploring the possibility of signing the Spaniard.
While personal terms are not believed to be an issue, Barcelona are yet to get the green light from RB Leipzig. They have already had an initial offer of €40 million plus €20 million in add-ons rejected but have presented an improved second offer.
Olmo was sensational for Spain in the Euros, powering La Roja to the trophy. He took up a starting role after Pedri's injury against Germany in the quarter-finals, finishing as the tournament's top-scorer with three goals while also bagging two assists. He made 25 appearances for his club last season, bagging eight goals and five assists.