Chelsea reportedly made a late attempt to derail Arsenal’s move for Riccardo Calafiori in the summer of 2024, according to revelations highlighting the fierce competition between the London rivals in the transfer market.

The two clubs have frequently pursued the same targets. More recently, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta was reportedly interested in Morgan Rogers, but the Gunners withdrew after Aston Villa demanded £117 million, allowing Chelsea to complete the signing instead.

Chelsea also beat Arsenal to Mykhailo Mudryk in January 2023 after Shakhtar Donetsk rejected several proposals from the north London club. However, that transfer setback has not necessarily harmed Arsenal’s long-term prospects.

According to journalist Sam Dean’s book, Arsenal: The Inside Story of Arsenal’s Rebirth Under Mikel Arteta, Chelsea attempted to interfere with Arsenal’s pursuit of Calafiori shortly before the Italian defender completed his move to the Emirates Stadium.

Arsenal had tracked the defender during his spell at Bologna and were determined to sign him regardless of his performances at Euro 2024. His impressive displays for Italy subsequently attracted attention from several major European clubs, including Chelsea and Real Madrid.

Chelsea reportedly contacted Bologna while the Italian club was holding discussions with Arsenal representatives about the proposed transfer, creating additional competition for the defender’s signature.

However, Arsenal’s financial position complicated negotiations before the European Championship. Former assistant sporting director Jason Ayto explained that the club needed to sell players before approving further arrivals.

Ayto described the strategy as a situation in which one departure had to fund another signing. Emile Smith Rowe’s transfer to Fulham helped finance Calafiori’s arrival, while Eddie Nketiah’s exit contributed towards plans for another midfield acquisition.

Arsenal eventually secured the defender for approximately £42 million. Calafiori has since strengthened Arteta’s defensive options, contributing both defensively and offensively while establishing himself as a regular presence at left-back.

Chelsea’s reported late intervention ultimately failed to prevent Arsenal from landing their target. Dean’s book also reportedly reveals that Arteta came close to managing Newcastle United before eventually taking charge at Arsenal.