Juventus want to sign Arsenal star with Gunners close to Calafiori deal

Juventus are eyeing a deal for defender Jakub Kiwior with Bologna star Riccardo Calafiori set to join Arsenal, according to Corriere dello Sport (page 6).

The Gunners have entered into advanced negotiations with Bologna to sign Calafiori. A deal worth £42.3 million could be finalised in the coming hours.

The Bianconeri have now given up on the versatile star and reports claim they are exploring alternatives. Kiwior is one of the top players on their wishlist.

Thiago Motta previously managed Kiwior at Spezia, and the defender has a good relationship with him. He could be signed for only £13m.

Arsenal should demand a higher fee for Kiwior

Kiwior signed for the Gunners from Spezia in January last year for £17.6m. He has been in and out of the starting line-up but has still made 38 appearances.

The Pole was initially signed as Gabriel Magalhaes’ deputy in central defence, but he has mostly played left-back for the Gunners.

The 24-year-old can also operate in defensive midfield. Given his versatility, it is no surprise that Motta is keen on a reunion with him.

Calafiori’s arrival at Arsenal will automatically reduce Kiwior’s game time. It is most likely that he will head for the exit door this summer.

However, Arsenal should demand a higher fee than £13m. The club could easily secure £25m for him from another Premier League club.

However, they can’t do much if Kiwior has his sights on returning to Serie A. In that case, the hierarchy should at least recoup the £17.6m fee spent on him.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com.