Arsenal submit 'monstrous' offer for Euro 2024 star also wanted by Chelsea and Liverpool

Arsenal has reportedly a submitted massive offer for an Italian defender who impressed at Euro 2024.

The quarterfinals of the 2024 European Championships kick off this weekend, with the first matches getting underway on Friday as Spain face hosts Germany and Portugal play France.

After winning the 2020 Euros with a penalty shootout win over England in the final, Italy went into the 2024 tournament looking to defend their title.

But it was not to be for Luciano Spaletti’s side, as they exited in the first knockout stage, losing to Switzerland 2-0 in the round of 16.

Despite their lacklustre championship defence, one player has stood out to Europe’s elite clubs, Riccardo Calafiori.

Both Arsenal and Chelsea are reportedly interested in signing the 22-year-old, who enjoyed a breakout season playing with Italian club Bologna, leading to his inclusion in Italy’s Euro 2024 squad.

On Wednesday, transfer expert Farbizio Romano revealed: “Arsenal’s interest in Riccardo Calafiori is there, and negotiations could be something to mention in the next days.

“Arsenal and Chelsea are the two clubs interested in Calafiori, though we’re waiting for a bid and for formal steps.

“They’re still waiting to understand the player’s preference and also how much is needed for Bologna; the price tag is not clear yet”

But reports in Italy, via Football365, suggest that this situation may have changed, as Arsenal have sent ‘a monstrous proposal’ of €47m for the star defender.

Calafiori made 30 appearances in the Serie A last season, helping Bologna qualify for the Champions League for the first time in 60 years.

The defender started for Italy against Albania and Croatia but was suspended for the match against Switzerland after receiving two yellow cards.

Riccardo Calafiori started for Italy as they faced Croatia at Euro 2024. (Image: Getty)

But Arsenal journalist Charles Watts isn’t convinced that the rumours surrounding the London club and Calafiori will lead to anything.

Writing in his Caught Offside column, he stated: “The current links with Riccardo Calafiori remind me of Arsenal’s interest in Manuel Locatelli a few years ago.

“While the interest was there, it never really went any further than that and that’s how I see things with Calafiori right now.

“Arsenal know that there is widespread interest in him from other clubs, both in Italy and in the Premier League. So, it will not be an easy deal to get done should Bologna agree to let him go.”