Darren Bent says he’d sell £32m Arsenal player if Riccardo Calafiori signs this summer

Tue 9 July 2024 8:15, UK

Arsenal appear to be closing in on their first signing of the summer, with reports suggesting Riccardo Calafiori will complete a switch to north London.

The Italian defender has emerged as a top target for Mikel Arteta as the Arsenal boss goes about strengthening his backline.

Arsenal reportedly want to complete a deal for Bologna’s Calafiori ahead of their pre-season tour of the US.

There have even been claims that the Gunners could wrap up the signing by Tuesday and should Calafiori complete a move to the Emirates Stadium, it’s likely to cast doubt over a couple of players’ futures at Arsenal.

TBR Football has already revealed that Oleksandr Zinchenko and Kieran Tierney have both been told they are free to leave this summer.

Zinchenko was only snapped up two summers ago but struggled for regular starts under Arteta last term, with Jakub Kiwior emerging as the preferred option at left-back.

And Darren Bent would like to see the former Manchester City star move on should Calafiori arrive this summer.

Bent would like to see Oleksandr Zinchenko leave if Calafiori signs for Arsenal

Speaking on , Bent delivered his verdict on Calafiori’s proposed switch to Arsenal this summer.

“Also, he (Riccardo Calafiori) could play at left-back, which could help as well,” the pundit said. “Centre-half wise, we are more than adequate in that area, but also from the left-back situation, Arsenal have got about, I think, it’s still six left-backs, so that’s one area, I think left-back was an issue.

“I know Timbers has come back, but Zinchenko, he’s probably the one I would allow to leave before, keep Jakub Kiwior because I think Kiwior last season showed signs that he could be a top left-back for Arsenal. Listen, another defender (Riccardo Calafiori), another option. It’s always good.”

Zinchenko facing uncertain future at Arsenal

The Ukraine star enjoyed a brilliant debut campaign at Arsenal after his switch from Man City back in the summer of 2022.

But Zinchenko undoubtedly slipped down the pecking order last season and with Arsenal targeting a left-back, his days in north London could be numbered.

Jurrien Timber also looks set to play a more prominent role next season after recovering from an ACL injury.

Should Calafiori arrive as expected, it would leave Arteta with a wealth of options at left-back and it would be no surprise to see Zinchenko head out the door.

At 27, Zinchenko very much remains in his prime years and Arsenal will be aware of the possibility of picking up a significant fee for the full-back.

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Darren Bent says he’d sell £32m Arsenal player if Riccardo Calafiori signs this summer

Bent would like to see Oleksandr Zinchenko leave if Calafiori signs for Arsenal

Zinchenko facing uncertain future at Arsenal