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

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.

Per Gazzetta dello Sport, 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.

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.

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