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Chelsea tried to hijack signing of Arsenal starter

Chelsea tried to hijack Arsenal's move for Riccardo Calafiori at the exact moment the Gunners were holding transfer talks with Bologna, according to a report.

Published: Tuesday, 20 October 2026 at 2:01 PM
Chelsea tried to hijack signing of Arsenal starter
Key Things to Know
  • Chelsea unsuccessfully attempted to hijack Arsenal's move for Riccardo Calafiori during Bologna transfer talks.
  • The permanent transfer was initially delayed until Arsenal completed Emile Smith Rowe's move to Fulham.
  • Real Madrid also reportedly registered transfer interest in Calafiori following his Euro 2024 performances.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Chelsea attempted to hijack Arsenal's permanent signing of Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna in 2024, according to a report by The Telegraph. The Blues reportedly contacted Bologna to make a transfer enquiry during an active meeting between the Italian club and Arsenal officials. Arsenal's progress had initially been delayed by a strict policy requiring Emile Smith Rowe to join Fulham first.

Arsenal successfully completed the transfer despite interest from Chelsea and Real Madrid. Calafiori has since made 73 appearances for the Gunners, helping them secure the 2025/26 Premier League title and starting every league fixture in the current campaign.

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