Riccardo Calafiori explains why he rejected Real Madrid and Bayern for Arsenal

Arsenal completed the signing of Italian defender Riccardo Calafiori today, beating high-profile targets to his signature. Speaking at his unveiling, the 22-year-old centre-back offered insight into why he picked Arsenal ahead of his other suitors.

The Gunners have been in negotiations for the versatile defender since immediately after Italy’s European Championship campaign came to an end; however, complications in the letter of his Bologna contract caused delay. 

On signing Calafiori from Basel, the Italian club agreed to part with 50% of his sell-on fee to the Swiss club. This caused complications in the deal and subsequently a delay. 

While Calafiori had already agreed personal terms with Arsenal, the period the deal lay fallow meant other teams could hijack the deal, and they tried. Sky Sports reported that Bayern Munich and Real Madrid registered interest during this period, but the player insisted on joining Mikel Arteta’s side. 

Real Madrid and Bayern Munich outsize Arsenal and are better guarantees for silverware, but the Italy international has his mind set on joining the North London club, and in his unveiling, he explained why. 

“It’s just the best project for myself for the next years,” Calafiori explained. “I spoke a lot with the coach, with Edu... they convinced me, but I was already convinced by myself! Premier League was my dream since I was 12! I can’t wait.”

Meanwhile, Arsenal's defensive midfielder Jorginho also contributed to Calafiori’s decision-making as the 22-year-old also revealed that his compatriot sounded him a convincing sales pitch.