Former Dortmund player set to replace Calafiori at Bologna

After the exit of Riccardo Calafiori, Bologna has identified German legend Mats Hummels as his replacement.

The Italy international completed his move to Arsenal on Monday after a stellar performance at the recently concluded 2024 European Championship in Germany. 

The 22-year-old joined the Gunners for a reported fee of just around £42m, including add-ons, signing a five-year contract that runs until the summer of 2029, with a wage packet of around €4m per season. During the 2023-24 season with Bologna, Calafiori, the center-back, helped the Rossoblu return to the Champions League for the first time in over 60 years. 

Meanwhile, Hummels, the 2014 World Cup winner, is still taking his time to decide on his next move.

According to reports on Monday evening, Bologna is still waiting for Hummels, who is currently available as a free agent following his departure from Borussia Dortmund upon the expiry of his contract at the end of June.

Gianluca Di Marzio provided an update on Monday evening, revealing that the 35-year-old Hummels is still considering the possibility of signing for Bologna but has not yet made a definitive decision.

The former Germany international is reportedly contemplating what might be best for his growing family. As family comes first, he is focused on what is best for the latter stages of his football career. 

Bologna is persistently pursuing him but needs to remain patient. Although the Serie A side is reportedly willing to wait, they have already identified a list of potential alternatives, including Udinese’s Jaka Bijol, Logan Costa, Sikou Niakate, Josip Sutalo, Jayden Oosterwolde, Daniele Rugani, and Otávio. 

With Calafiori’s transfer to Arsenal, Bologna’s need for a new center-back has intensified. With Champions League football already in their sights, they will require significant reinforcements as they prepare to face fixture congestion.