Riccardo Calafiori's Arsenal transfer under threat? Why Bologna have put the handbrake on Gunners' move for Italy star – explained

Riccardo Calafiori's move from Bologna to Arsenal has hit a roadblock and there are fears the deal could now stall.

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• Arsenal attempting to buy Italy international
• Calafiori valued at €50 million (£42m/$54m)
• Hold-up relates to sell-on clause

• Table of Contents

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  WHAT HAPPENED?

  Arsenal have been attempting to sign Calafiori in a deal that could be worth €50m (£42m/$54m), but there is now a significant hold-up when it comes to the completion of the deal. Bologna signed the defender from Basel in 2023.

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  THE EXPLANATION

  Per , Bologna have decided to pause the deal as they aim to renegotiate the sell-on clause that was included in his contract when he moved from Basel. The Swiss club have a 50 per cent sell-on clause, so would be entitled to £21m were Calafiori to move for the reported £42m fee Arsenal are attempting to negotiate.

  Bologna have now asked Calafiori to return to pre-season training, according to Sky Sport Italia, as there is a €10m gap between Arsenal's offer and Bologna's valuation.

• DID YOU KNOW?

  Bologna qualified for the Champions League last season and, as such, are under little pressure to agree a cut-price deal with the Gunners. Calafiori was one of the standout players for Italy at Euro 2024.

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  WHAT NEXT?

  Arsenal will hope to tie up the deal for Calafiori swiftly or they may risk not being able to secure his signature at all.