Arsenal sign Italy defender Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna

LONDON (AP) — Arsenal signed Italy defender Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna on Monday.

The English Premier League club did not confirm the fee for Calafiori, 22, or the length of the contract, but media reports said he had agreed a five-year deal, with Arsenal paying £42m pounds ($54 million).

“He’s a great signing and gives us a huge boost to strengthen our defence,” Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said. “Riccardo is a big personality and character with specific skills that will make us stronger as we strive to win major trophies.”

Calafiori is a versatile defender who can play as a center back or left back. He was part of Italy’s squad at this summer’s European Championship.

“He has already shown great development in recent seasons with his performances for both Bologna and Italy, his progress and development over the last year has been truly impressive,” Arteta added.

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The Associated Press