Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that the club is working to strengthen specific positions in the team, with the signing of Italy defender Riccardo Calafiori imminent.
While Arteta wouldn’t comment on the progress of the deal, sources suggest that talks are advancing well and a £34m transfer is expected to be finalized soon.
Arteta spoke to reporters in Los Angeles, where Arsenal is currently on a three-match tour of the United States.
He emphasized the need for improvement despite the team’s strong performance in recent seasons. “When you’re so close, you want to grab it,” Arteta said, referencing Arsenal’s second-place finishes behind Manchester City in the past two campaigns.
The manager also highlighted the importance of bolstering the squad, particularly in central midfield. “We have to improve,” Arteta stressed. “Perfection in this league requires different standards, and that’s what we have to do.”
Arteta praised Bukayo Saka, who recently starred in England’s Euro 2024 campaign, scoring in the penalty shootout victory over Switzerland. “Bukayo’s role is constantly growing and evolving,” Arteta said. “He’s a super important player for us and one of the main players for the national team.”
With Arsenal’s players returning for pre-season in stages, Arteta is focused on building a stronger squad to challenge for the Premier League title.
