Tottenham end interest in Calafiori as Arsenal close in on defender

Tottenham Hotspur have long-established interests in securing Bologna defender Riccardo Calafiori as the North Londoners eyed the Italian international for a summer move; however, Arsenal’s entry into the race for his signatures has complicated Spurs chances of landing the 22-year-old’s signatures.

Owner of reputed Spurs podcast Lilywhite Rose, John Wenham, believes that Spurs will not give signing the Italian international a shot, with Arsenal looking to conclude the transfer. He acknowledges that Calafiori would want a move where there are opportunities to start around the corner.

Depth concerns remain as Spurs miss out on Calafiori

The Whites from North London wanted to sign Riccardo Calafiori in the summer window and were linked with a move for the Bologna defender alongside Italian giants Juventus (h/t Tutto Sport). However, any opportunities to land his signatures are possibly over as Arsenal have proceeded and agreed on personal terms with the player and are in advanced talks with Bologna to agree on a price point for the 22-year-old defender.

In an exclusive interview with Tottenham News, John Wenham went on to appreciate the quality the Arsenal-bound defender possesses while highlighting how there would have been a lack of opportunities coming Italian’s way if he had moved to the N17. He also ruled out any possibility of Spurs hijacking the deal. Wenham said:

“This is a very exciting defender we’re talking about. However, plenty of clubs will be chasing his signature, such as Arsenal. In addition, we already have plenty of top defenders. Calafiori will want to go to a club where he is a guaranteed starter. Therefore, I just can’t see us signing another defender of that level. He won’t want to come and battle with three other top players in his position.”

Arsenal have their hands on one of the generational defenders who has been showing his prowess in the ongoing European Championships. He has a profile that can benefit the Gunners in multiple ways, although for Spurs, this is where we end up appreciating what Calafiori brings to the table.

More Tottenham Hotspur News:

• Serie A club do not want to spend more than €17m to sign Tottenham Hotspur defender
• Tottenham talks with Serie A club collapse as clubs fail to agree cut-price deal
• Tottenham Hotspur make contact to sign £50 million Ligue 1 talent this summer

From Tottenham’s point of view, there is certainly a need for a new central defender to ensure there is reasonable depth in the position. We will see who Daniel Levy and his officials move on to as the window progresses.