Mikel Arteta has opened up about Arsenal’s signing of Riccardo Calafiori and has stated what the Italian can offer to his squad.
Arsenal confirmed the signing of Riccardo Calafiori on Monday (July 29th) after the Gunners struck an agreement with Bologna for the signing of the Italian defender.
The Gunners have been frustrated in the transfer market but the signing of the Italian represents their first major deal of the window as the club hope to win the Premier League title under Mikel Arteta.
Calafiori will slot in seamlessly to the Arsenal back four with Takehiro Tomiyasu set to provide competition for the Italian defender.
Arteta explains what appealed to him about Calafiori deal
Arteta has other priorities that he wants addressing with a new midfielder and a new striker understood to be under consideration.
One of these signings potentially on the cards is Mikel Merino with sources telling HITC that Arsenal are keen on the Real Sociedad midfielder, who shone at Euro 2024.
As for Calafiori, Arsenal confirmed the deal was done and the Italian defender has already been videod talking to the squad ahead of beginning at the North London club.
Arteta, speaking to Arsenal’s official website, said of the signing: “We welcome Riccardo and his family to Arsenal. He is a great signing and gives us huge strength to reinforce our defence.
“Riccardo is a big personality and character, with specific skills which will make us stronger as we push to win major trophies. He has already shown great development in recent seasons with his performances for both Bologna and Italy, with his progression and development in the past year being really impressive.
“We’re looking forward to working with Riccardo, integrating him into the squad, and supporting him in the years to come.”
Arsenal’s need for sales before they make more signings
The rest of the window promises to be a busy one for the Gunners as they look for a midfield addition with Merino being of interest.
However, before the Gunners make any more signings, HITC understands that sales will be the priority for the club before they make more signings.
With Calafiori through the door at the Emirates Stadium, this has led to questions over the future of Polish defender Kiwior.
HITC understands that Arsenal are willing to sell Kiwior this summer with Inter Milan the side who are showing the most interest.
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