Riccardo Calafiori: Chelsea Open Talks With Bologna Over Left-Back
Chelsea makes a move for Italian defender
Chelsea and Bologna have opened talks over a potential move for Italian left-back Riccardo Calafiori, according to multiple sources.
Calafiori, 19, is a highly rated prospect who has been capped at youth level for Italy. He is a product of Roma's academy and emerged in the senior team last season, making 18 appearances.
The Blues are in need of a new left-back, with Marcos Alonso and Emerson Palmieri both linked with moves away from Stamford Bridge. Calafiori would be seen as a long-term replacement for Alonso.
Bologna are thought to be open to selling Calafiori for a fee of around €20m, but they are also keen to keep hold of him if possible. The player himself could play a key role in determining the outcome of the negotiations.
Calafiori is a versatile defender who can play at left-back or center-back. He is good with the ball at his feet and has a good range of passing. He is also a strong tackler and an excellent reader of the game.
If Chelsea do manage to sign Calafiori, it would represent a significant coup. He is one of the most promising young defenders in Europe and could help Chelsea to challenge for the Premier League title next season.
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