Arsenal’s attempts to finalize the transfer of Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna have encountered a setback, as Roma has reportedly initiated legal action to challenge their claim to a portion of the transfer fee.
The Gunners have been making progress in securing the signing of Calafiori, with a reported transfer fee of £33.6 million, potentially rising to £37.8 million, already agreed upon. Personal terms have also been settled, and it is anticipated that the defender will sign a five-year contract with Arsenal.
However, Roma, who sold Calafiori to Basel last year, are disputing the percentage of the transfer fee they believe they are entitled to receive. They argue that they should receive a larger portion of the fee, based on previous agreements in place when the player was initially sold to Basel.
This dispute has prompted legal representatives from both clubs to become involved in assessing the situation, with a resolution not yet achieved.
The uncertainty surrounding the legal challenge could potentially delay Calafiori’s transfer to Arsenal, as the club is hopeful for a smooth process to facilitate the player’s integration.
Despite late attempts from other clubs, such as Real Madrid, Juventus, and another Premier League club, to derail the deal, it has been reported that Calafiori was set on joining Arsenal and declined all other offers.
As the legal challenge unfolds, it remains to be seen how it will impact Arsenal’s pursuit of the highly-rated defender. The club will be eager for a prompt resolution to ensure that Calafiori has sufficient time to settle in and become part of the squad.
This situation serves as a reminder of the intricacies involved in modern football transfers, with multiple parties and agreements to consider. It emphasizes the importance of clear and thorough negotiations to avoid potential disputes and delays.
Ultimately, Arsenal will be hoping for a swift and harmonious resolution to the legal challenge, allowing them to secure the services of Calafiori and strengthen their defensive options for the upcoming season.