Arsenal Eyes New Heights: Arteta Aims to Bolster Squad with Calafiori Signing

 


Los Angeles — Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that the club is actively working to strengthen "certain positions" as they close in on signing Italian defender Riccardo Calafiori. Speaking at the start of Arsenal's three-match tour of the United States, Arteta emphasized the need for improvement despite the club's strong performances in recent seasons.

"There is no update yet," Arteta told reporters regarding the potential £34m deal for the 22-year-old Bologna defender. "However, sources indicate that talks are progressing well and are expected to reach a positive conclusion."

In addition to bolstering their defense, Arsenal is also targeting reinforcements in central midfield. After finishing second to Manchester City in the last two Premier League campaigns, Arteta is determined to push for the title this season.

"We have to improve," Arteta asserted. "When you are so close, you want to grab it. Perfection in this league requires different standards, especially when it comes to winning the Premier League, and that is our aim."

With the transfer window still open, Arteta remains hopeful about further strengthening his squad. "There is still a lot of time left, and while that is more a question for the board, we know there are certain positions we want to improve," he said. "But the main thing is to focus on falling in love with the players we have."

Arsenal's pre-season preparations are in full swing, with players returning in stages. The squad will regroup in London following matches against Bournemouth, Manchester United, and Liverpool. Key players such as Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka will join later, having participated in the Euro 2024 campaign with England, which concluded on July 14.

One of the tournament's highlights was Saka's composed performance in the penalty shootout victory over Switzerland in the quarter-finals, erasing the memory of his missed penalty in the previous tournament’s final against Italy.

"I was very nervous," Arteta admitted. "What happened a few years ago plays back in your mind, but Bukayo showed a lot of guts, determination, and composure to take it the way he did. His role is constantly growing and evolving. He is a super important player for us and one of the main players for the national team."

As Arsenal prepares for the upcoming season, the focus remains on fine-tuning the squad and ensuring they are ready to challenge for the Premier League title. With potential new signings on the horizon, the Gunners are set for an exciting campaign ahead.

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