“I’m sorry about his transfer” - Leonardo Bonucci makes big admission about Arsenal bound Riccardo Calafiori
Leonardo Bonucci has expressed frustration with Riccardo Calafiori's transfer to Arsenal. The legendary defender reckons Calafiori should have been kept in Italian football with Juventus making an effort to do so.
The Gunners are reportedly close to sealing a €50 million deal for Calafiori. However. the negotiations are delayed because Calafiori's former club Basel want 50 percent of the transfer fee. Basel reportedly sold Calafiori to Bologna for €4 million a year ago.
Juventus tried to attempt to sign Calafiori, but, the player is heading to north London and Bonucci is frustrated at the situation. Lauding Calafiori's abilities and potential, Bonucci told Sky Sports Italia:
"I am sorry about his transfer. I would have liked to see him in Juventus. He's a defender who is a little different from what we're used to seeing. He plays, has personality, and fits in. We're exporting a great player who'll be a point of reference in the national team for the next 15 years."
Arsenal have managed to agree a deal for Calafiori despite Chelsea's interest. The defender was crucial for Bologna in 2023-24, helping the Serie A side secure a UEFA Champions League qualification.
Apart from that, he was also crucial during Italy's Euro 2024 campaign, even providing the assist in the 1-1 comeback draw against Croatia. Calafiori missed the round of 16 game against Switzerland, in which the Azzurri lost 1-2.
How would Riccardo Calafiori fit at Arsenal?
Arsenal have a rich pool of defensive players. William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhaes, Jakub Kiwior, Jurrien Timber, and more are already in Mikel Arteta's rank for the 2024-25 season.
Calafiori, however, has shown his versatility. He can play as a centre-back or as a left-back, similar to Timber. Calafiori is also adept with his passing range, a quality that could transform well in the Premier League.
Kiwior, meanwhile, has attracted the interest of several Serie A clubs. New Juventus boss Thiago Motta is reportedly interested in reuniting with Kiwior having previously worked with the Poland international in Spezia.
Hence, Calafiori could take up that role if Kiwior leaves. He could also walk straight into the Gunners' starting XI. It's worth keeping an eye on what Arteta has planned for the Italy international.