Riccardo Calafiori insists he was always ‘convinced’ to join Arsenal despite two months of talks with the manager and reveals the key qualities he will bring to the Gunners

• Riccardo Calafiori showed his confidence when speaking after his move to Arsenal
• The Italian defender joined the Gunners on Monday for £42 million.
• Calafiori described Mikel Arteta’s team as “the best project” after his move

Riccardo Calafiori boldly declared that he joined Arsenal to win trophies after attending their game against Crystal Palace in January.

The 22-year-old defender from Bologna signed a five-year deal with Arsenal worth around £42 million and joined the team in Philadelphia on Monday.

He said: “I spoke to the coach (Mikel Arteta) and Edu for almost two months. They tried to convince me, but I was already really convinced to come here.

“For me it’s the best project I can have to improve as a player. That’s all.”

“I want to improve and win trophies. For me this is the best project because the team is young, the team is strong, it is really good.”

When asked what he could give Arsenal to help them win the Premier League, he replied: “Maybe my attitude. I like to win. That starts in training. That’s what I want to convey to the team.”

“I’m also confident with the ball and I like to play, so this is the perfect choice.” Arteta was very happy with the signing that he was so keen to complete.

Arteta said: “When I spoke to him once or twice, I wasn’t sure whether we were going to do it or not.

“He insisted: ‘Let me know when you’re ready. My bags are packed and I just want to go to Arsenal.’ Those were his words.

“When you have someone with that willingness and passion to get involved and make us better, and that determination, it’s really impressive. As a club, we should be really proud.”