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If the transfer market was run like a dating app, Mikel Arteta’s search criteria for Arsenal would see him tick ‘tall’, ‘technical’ and ‘adaptable’ almost every time he logged on. Size matters to the Spaniard, along with skill and multi-functionality. Arteta has definitely developed a type in the transfer market, as evidenced by his recent acquisitions such as Declan Rice, Kai Havertz, Jurrien Timber, Ben White, and Jakub Kiwior.
These imposing, technically gifted players fit perfectly into Arteta’s fluid playing style, which requires seamless movement between positions. The Gunners boss also values the intimidation factor that comes with a physically dominant team, as seen in their set-piece dominance last season.
It is in this context that Arsenal’s pursuit of Italy’s Riccardo Calafiori makes perfect sense. The 22-year-old central defender ticks all the boxes for Arteta, with his height, pace, bravery, game-reading ability, and exceptional quality on the ball. Calafiori’s progressive distribution and attacking threat, as demonstrated at Euro 2024, have caught the manager’s eye.
Additionally, Calafiori’s versatility to play at left-back could be crucial for the Gunners, as they face uncertainty in that position. With potential departures of Oleksandr Zinchenko and Jakub Kiwior, the squad needs a natural left-footer to provide cover for William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães.
Arsenal are also reportedly interested in signing Nico Williams, the Spanish winger who impressed at Euro 2024. Like Calafiori, Williams fits Arteta’s profile – tall, technical, and adaptable. With his outstanding numbers in LaLiga last season, including 11 assists, Williams could be a game-changing addition to the Gunners’ attack.
While these transfers are not yet finalized, the links demonstrate Arteta’s proactive approach to the summer window. After a strong season that fell just short of the Premier League title, the Spaniard is determined to strengthen his squad further and capitalize on Arsenal’s current attractiveness to top young talents across Europe.
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