'Brilliant' Arsenal transfer reminds me of Barcelona icon Eric Abidal – he's definitely someone to get excited about
07/25/2024 01:14 PM
Riccardo Calafiori's 'brilliant' performances at Euro 2024 will excite Arsenal fans as his switch to the Emirates draws closer.
That’s the view of European football expert Andy Brassell who claims the Gunners are getting value for money with the Italian.
The versatile Bologna defender was one of Italy's few bright sparks this summer in an otherwise disappointing showing from the former holders.
And his dazzling displays – coupled with his performances to help Bologna secure Champions League football – convinced Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta to make a move for the Juventus and Chelsea target.
Brassell believes the Gunners boss will take full advantage of Calafiori's defensive versatility as they look to dethrone champions Manchester City.
The Bologna star began his career as a left-back until he was persuaded to adopt a central role during a year-long spell at Swiss side FC Basel.
Calafiori has flourished since taking the advice of his former coach Heiko Vogel, sparking comparisons with Barcelona legend Eric Abidal.
"I guess there’s the flexibility with Calafiori as well isn’t there because, you’re looking at someone who is comfortable at left back as well," Brassell told talkSPORT.
"He was a left-back before Thiago Motta converted him into a centre-back last season and I think there were not many exciting things about Italy during the Euros.
"But I think you look at the bit where he set up [Mattia] Zaccagni's equaliser against Croatia.
"When he just went on that rampaging run forward, it was a bit Eric Abidal, actually, wasn’t it? It was brilliant and that is something to get Arsenal fans excited."
For fans of Arsenal, the deal to bring Calafiori to the Emirates has been a slow process.
Whilst the defender is poised to be announced by the Premier League title challengers, there are still some small details to tie up before finalising the transfer.
"What really the hold up has been so far is his previous club Basel," Brassell explained.
"Yeah, that’s right. He’s been through Switzerland as well, their part of the deal is holding it up.
"There's still negotiation between Basel and Bologna on how that might shake out because they’re due quite a big bit of the profit it seems.
"But Arsenal are paying a lot for him and paying a lot for someone who looks a thoroughbred, there’s no doubt about it."
