Arsenal have made their first summer signing after wrapping up a deal for Bologna defender Riccardo Calafiori.

The Gunners have been heavily linked with the centre-back, who is also capable of playing at left-back, for weeks following his impressive performances at Euro 2024.

And the 22-year-old has now put pen to paper after a financial package worth around €50million (£42m) was agreed with Bologna, who snapped up the youngster from Basel last summer. Calafiori will now link up with his new team-mates in the United States on the Gunners’ pre-season tour.

Mikel Arteta, who identified Calafiori as a priority signing, said of the deal: “We welcome Riccardo and his family to Arsenal. He is a great signing and gives us huge strength to reinforce our defence.

Transfer news LIVE: Barcelona’s Nico Williams stance, Calafiori to Arsenal latest, Liverpool and Man Utd plans

Nico Williams sent three-word transfer warning amid Arsenal interest
“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.”

Prior to getting a deal for Calafiori over the line, Arsenal’s sole summer signing had been David Raya, who turned his loan move permanent for a fee of £27m.

Calafiori will strengthen the Premier League’s leanest defence with nobody able to better Arsenal’s defensive record of shipping 29 goals in 38 league games last term.

Sporting Director Edu said: “It has been a great team effort in completing this transfer and we welcome Riccardo to the family.

Arsenal unveil new signing Riccardo Calafiori, who will wear number 33 for the Gunners
“We identified Riccardo as part of our strategy to sign players who fit our profile and will reinforce our squad to compete at the highest level. He is 22 but brings quality and experience. He will quickly grow into being an Arsenal player.

“Riccardo has consistently shown his quality for his club and country. He was one of the best players in Serie A last season, and gave strong performances for Italy in the Euros this summer. Mikel and our coaches are excited to start working with Riccardo, and we all look forward to seeing him in our shirt.”

With a deal for Calafiori now complete, Arsenal are expected to try and negotiate a deal with Real Sociedad for midfielder Mikel Merino, who also impressed at Euro 2024.

The 28-year-old playmaker has emerged as a serious target for the Gunners and he is expected to leave Spain this summer. Arteta would also like to sign a new winger and Nico Williams, Merino’s international team-mate, has been heavily linked.