July 18th 2024.
There's been quite a bit of buzz around the Premier League lately as new Liverpool manager Arne Slot and Arsenal's Mikel Arteta are making some moves in the transfer market. In particular, there's a player that both teams have their eyes on - Italian defender Riccardo Calafiori. However, it seems that Arsenal is currently leading the race for the 22-year-old, with a deal potentially worth £42m on the horizon.
Calafiori caught the attention of many during Euro 2024, despite Italy's disappointing exit in the round of 16 to Switzerland. He has also been a standout player for Bologna in the 2023-24 season, making 33 appearances and helping his team secure a spot in the Champions League. With his versatility to play both as a centre-back and left-back, it's no wonder that both Liverpool and Arsenal are eager to secure his signature.
Former Liverpool player Didi Hamann believes that his old club should make a late swoop for Calafiori and potentially hijack Arsenal's deal. He praises the player's comfort on the ball and points out his impact on Italy's performance when he was absent from their game against Switzerland. Hamann also suggests that Calafiori could start for Liverpool alongside Virgil van Dijk, who has been vocal about his desire to stay at the club and help Slot turn things around.
However, Hamann also acknowledges the strength of Liverpool's current centre-back partnership with Ibrahima Konate, despite the latter's injury struggles. He believes that Calafiori would be a valuable addition to the team, but only if the price is right. He sees the Italian as a player who can elevate the team's performance and help them challenge for trophies.
Speaking of Slot, it's been a busy summer for him as he prepares to take over the reins at Liverpool from Jurgen Klopp. Hamann, who was part of the famous Liverpool team that won the Champions League in 2005, acknowledges that it won't be an easy task for Slot to follow in the footsteps of someone like Klopp. But he also sees it as an opportunity for the Dutchman and is impressed by his humility and approachability.
While some may have been hesitant to take on the daunting task of replacing a successful manager like Klopp, Hamann believes that Slot saw it as a chance he couldn't pass up. He's been saying all the right things so far and Hamann is confident in his abilities. However, he does point out that the expectations at Liverpool can be overwhelming and it will be a challenge for Slot to manage them.
Overall, it's an exciting time for both Liverpool and Arsenal as they make moves to strengthen their squads for the upcoming season. With the potential signing of Calafiori and the arrival of a new manager at Liverpool, there's plenty to look forward to in the Premier League.
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