Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said defender Riccardo Calafiori was “ready to pack his bags” and join the club as soon as the pair spoke.
The versatile 22-year-old Italian defender was signed by Bologna for a fee of up to £42 million including add-onsand quickly joined his teammates in Philadelphia ahead of a pre-season match against Liverpool on Wednesday.
Asked what impressed him most about Calafiori, Arteta said it was the Italian’s desire to join Arsenal amid potential competition from other clubs.
“It was great when I talked to him once or twice and that was when I didn’t know if we could do it or not,” he said at Union’s Subaru Park in Philadelphia.
“He was adamant: ‘Let me know when you’re ready, my bags are packed and I just want to go to Arsenal.’ Those were his words.
“When you have that feeling of will and determination to make us better. We should be very proud of that.”
Arteta added that Calafiori will not be in a rush to play against Liverpool at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, but could be available to play “a few minutes”.
This in the city made famous by fictional boxing champion Rocky ‘the Italian Stallion’ Balboa, with Calafiori saying he hopes to see Rocky’s famous steps and statue, before explaining why he moved to the Emirates Stadium.
“I spoke with the coach for almost two months and [sporting director] Edu”, said Calafiori.
“It was very difficult [that the negotiations took a while]. But I’m here and I need to keep improving every day in training. I was really convinced to come here. For me, it’s the best project I could have to improve as a player.
“There were other clubs, but I don’t care anymore. I’m here and I want to win trophies. This is the best project because the team is young and can win trophies. My mentality is to win.
“I can play in different positions, I don’t care where, but I just want to play. I was here in January to watch Arsenal against Crystal Palace. Once I’m really fit, I hope to help the team.”
Midfielder Emile Smith Rowe was not training as he travels to complete his 34m change to Fulham.
Arteta refused to talk about a deal that is still being finalized but said Arsenal’s next deals are close to being completed.
“We have already identified where we need to improve, in the February and March meetings,” he stated.
“If we can, we will try to strengthen the team. But so far I’m very happy with what I have.
“We don’t expect to do anything like that. [a big Declan Rice deal] at the time.”
