Leonardo Bonucci shares thoughts with Arsenal on Riccardo Calafiori's transfer.

Italian football legend Leonardo Bonucci thinks Arsenal are about to sign Riccardo Calafiori, a player he believes will be a key figure for Italy's national team for the next 15 years.

Arsenal are close to securing the 22-year-old defender, who they see as their top choice for defense this summer. The deal hit a snag recently due to discussions between Bologna and Calafiori's former club FC Basel over a sell-on clause. However, Arsenal are nearing a €50 million deal to bring him to north London.

Calafiori played a crucial role in Bologna's qualification for the Champions League last season and impressed at Euro 2024 for Italy until they were knocked out in the round of 16, a match he missed due to suspension.

Despite interest from Juventus, Bonucci expressed regret that they missed out on signing Calafiori, whom he believes will shine for both club and country in the years ahead.

Arsenal beat Chelsea to agree on personal terms with Calafiori earlier this month. Basel, who sold him for €4 million last August, demanded 50% of the transfer fee, causing displeasure at Bologna given Calafiori's short stint and a late call-up to Italy.