Arsenal transfer gets seal of approval as private Riccardo Calafiori chat emerges

Arsenal broke the bank this summer to sign in-form Italian defender Riccardo Calafiori, and one of their former centre-backs has already chimed in on the 'impressive' deal

Riccardo Calafiori's transfer to Arsenal has been approved by ex-Gunner William Gallas.

Mikel Arteta's shrewd spending this summer has put his side in a good position to mount a third consecutive assault on the league title. Perhaps the most notable deal the north Londoners got over the line was that of Euro 2024 stand-out Calafiori.

The 22-year-old defender has impressed in Serie A with Bologna and announced himself on the European stage with his country at the Euros in Germany. His performances temped Arteta and co. to part with £42million for his signature.

Gallas has revealed that on a call with one of his Italy-based former team-mates, he learned Calafiori was considered one of the best in his position back in his homeland - and the Frenchman even likened him to defensive icon Paulo Maldini.

"I was watching the France vs Italy match and Calafiori stood out. I thought he was really impressive before he was taken off with an injury," Gallas, who played nearly 150 times for the Gunners, told Prime Casino.

"During the game, I’m texting my friend, Ousmane Dabo [former French international], and he played for Inter, Lazio, he spent most of his career in Serie A, so he knows the league and he knows Calafiori.

"We’re talking about this player, and Ousmane tells me that he is the best defender in Italy and has been for a while. He said that he was outstanding last season, and I’m watching it, and I’m thinking this guy reminds me of Paulo Maldini.

"Before Arsenal fans get too excited with the comparison, I’m talking about the way that Riccardo Calafiori moves, his style. I like his movement, how he reads the game. He’s got great awareness and ability for a 22-year-old.

"Maybe it’s the long hair and the position he plays, because he can play as a left back that also makes me think of Maldini. Against France he played as the left centre back in a back three, but without the ball he moves into midfield.

"He’s very comfortable on the ball in those areas of the pitch; doesn’t panic. Dabo said he was one of, if not the best defender in Italy last season. Every time I’ve seen him, I’ve been impressed."

The Italian has played just twice in the Premier League so far for the Gunners, appearing off the bench having failed to break into Arteta's first-choice starting XI as of yet after suffering an apparent bruised calf injury for his country in their UEFA Nations League clash against France.

However, Calafiori will no doubt provide excellent cover in competitions like the Champions League at either centre-half, a position currently held by Gabriel and William Saliba, or left-back, where Jurrien Timber has taken the reins as first-choice this campaign.

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