According to a report by Football London on Tuesday October 20, 2026, the increasing transfer rivalry between the two London clubs was on full display in the summer of 2024, when Chelsea allegedly made a last-ditch effort to block Arsenal from acquiring Riccardo Calafiori.

The Blues and Arsenal have been in a bidding war for star players on multiple occasions. Arsenal pulled out of the deal when Aston Villa demanded £117 million for Morgan Rogers, allowing Chelsea to sign him instead of Mikel Arteta, who supposedly wanted him.

After multiple bids from Shakhtar Donetsk were turned down by Arsenal, Chelsea were able to secure Mykhailo Mudryk in January 2023. On the other hand, Arsenal may have benefited from that lost opportunity.

As reported in Arsenal: The Inside Story of Arsenal’s Rebirth by journalist Sam Dean Before the Italian defender completed his move to Arsenal, Chelsea tried to thwart their pursuit of him under Mikel Arteta.

It didn't matter how Calafiori did at Euro 2024; Arsenal had been watching him play for Bologna and planned to sign him anyhow. Several European powerhouses were interested in him after his outstanding performances for Italy.

The defender's transfer market was reportedly heated due to interest from clubs like Real Madrid and Chelsea. While Bologna was meeting with Arsenal representatives to discuss the transfer, Chelsea reached out to them.

The deal couldn't be finalized before the European Championship because of Arsenal's financial constraints. It was necessary to approve departures before additional signings could be made, according to former assistant sporting director Jason Ayto.

"It had to be one in, one out," Ayto said, explaining that the transfers of Emile Smith Rowe to Fulham and Eddie Nketiah both played a role in the arrival of Calafiori and another midfielder that was planned.

After much negotiation, Arsenal paid about £42 million to acquire the defender, who has emerged as a key player for Arteta's squad.

In addition to becoming a regular starter, Calafiori has been impressive defensively and offensively, scoring goals and assisting on others. His play has given Arsenal more options at left back.

After Chelsea's failed intervention, Arsenal were able to secure their target. According to Dean's book, Arteta was almost manager of Newcastle United before he took over at the Emirates Stadium.