Arsenal Transfer News Today: Calafiori BLOW, Smith Rowe OFFER, Williams COMPETITION

Cameron Smith

• 16 Jul 2024 19:00 BST
• 4 min read

FootballTransfers runs through the latest Arsenal football transfer news updates, including the latest on Riccardo Calafiori, Emile Smith Rowe and Nico Williams.

Riccardo Calafiori concern

Arsenal are still pushing to sign Italy defender Riccardo Calafiori, but Bologna aren’t willing to lower their current asking price.

The Serie A side are holding out for at least €50 million, well aware that Calafiori’s former club Basel will be owed 50% of any transfer fee.

READ MORE: Premier League summer transfers 2024 - All the Done Deals

The 22-year-old has already agreed personal terms with Arsenal and is only interested in joining the Gunners, however the move has not advanced in recent days.

Furthermore, the deal could be in doubt as Bologna aren’t willing to lower their asking price, according to GiveMeSport’s Ben Jacobs.

As per Jacobs, Arsenal are still determined to sign Calafiori, but negotiations are relatively tough and they are still deciding whether €50m is value for money or if they should look for alternatives.

READ MORE: Arsenal Transfer News LIVE

Fulham to submit second Emile Smith Rowe bid

Fulham are set to launch a second bid for Arsenal midfielder Emile Smith Rowe after seeing their opening offer rejected by the Gunners.

According to The Athletic, Arsenal will not stand in the Hale End product's way, but they will only agree to sell the 23-year-old for the right price.

Sky Sports reported on Monday that the Gunners have knocked back bids from Fulham and Crystal Palace, while Fabrizio Romano has revealed that Marco Silva’s side could return with a subsequent offer.

Aston Villa enter Nico Williams race

Aston Villa are reportedly the latest club to enter the race for Athletic Club winger Nico Williams following his impressive form at Euro 2024.

Arsenal are also interested in signing the Spain international, but a move to the Emirates Stadium appears unlikely as things stand, amid significant interest from Barcelona.

Despite the high likelihood of Williams joining Barca, Aston Villa have entered the race to sign him as they attempt a late hijack, according to TEAMtalk.

Desire Doue unlikely

Arsenal have been linked with Stade Rennais winger Desire Doue, but a deal is currently unlikely, as per Charles Watts.

The French teenager is being pursued by multiple elite European clubs, however interest from the Gunners hasn’t been confirmed by Watts, while a move is unlikely to happen unless several players are moved on first.

Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich are believed to be leading the race for Doue, with Chelsea also keen.