BREAKING NEWS: “Given what he performed for his club and his country last season, he would undoubtedly be a starter for Liverpool. He’s the type of player who enhances your squad, which is obviously critical when you want to compete for championships.” – Riccardo Calafiori’s transfer to Arsenal is in jeopardy when Liverpool is told to hijack the transaction

Arsenal have shown keen interest in signing Italy and Bologna center-back Riccardo Calafiori, but Liverpool legend Didi Hamann believes the Reds should intervene and secure the highly sought-after defender. Calafiori, who impressed during Euro 2024, has caught the eye of several top European clubs.

At 22 years old, Calafiori seems set for a Premier League move, with Arsenal currently leading the chase. However, the transfer fee is a major stumbling block.

Bologna is demanding £42 million, which is £8 million more than Arsenal’s current offer. In light of this stalemate, Hamann is advocating for Liverpool to rekindle their previous interest in Calafiori and outmaneuver Arsenal.

In an interview with Top Offshore Casinos, Hamann remarked, “Riccardo Calafiori is an excellent player, comfortable on the ball. Italy’s poor performance against Switzerland in the last 16, which followed his absence, underscored his importance. His assist for the last-minute equalizer against Croatia also highlights his quality.”

Hamann stressed that Virgil van Dijk, who wishes to continue working with his fellow Dutchman Arne Slot, would greatly benefit from Calafiori as a teammate.

He pointed out that while Ibrahima Konate is an exceptional defender, his injury record makes Calafiori a very appealing option. “Calafiori would be a strong addition, depending on his cost,” Hamann noted. “Given his club and international performances, he would likely be a starter for Liverpool. Players like him enhance your squad, which is vital for trophy ambitions.”

Interest in Calafiori has surged since Italy’s exit from the Euros, with Chelsea also expressing interest. Arsenal aimed to finalize the deal before their U.S. tour, but the ongoing fee negotiations make that unlikely.

Bologna’s high fee demand stems from a deal with Calafiori’s former club, Swiss side Basel, which is entitled to 50% of any transfer fee. This financial arrangement could create an opportunity for Liverpool, who are in the market for defensive reinforcements.

Liverpool is also monitoring RB Leipzig’s Mohamed Simakan, valued at £38 million, as another defensive target. The need for bolstering their defense is evident, and Hamann’s endorsement of Calafiori underscores the Italian’s potential impact at Anfield.

As the transfer window progresses, it will be interesting to see if Liverpool takes Hamann’s advice and makes a move for Calafiori, or if Arsenal will overcome the financial obstacles and secure the defender’s signature.