Former Bologna player Fabio Poli believes that the potential loss of Riccardo Calafiori will hit the club harder than the potential departure of Joshua Zirkzee.

Arsenal are interested in Riccardo Calafiori whilst Manchester United are keen on striker Joshua Zirkzee with sources telling HITC that there is a belief that an agreement on personal terms is close.

As for Calafiori, HITC has reported that, despite the club insisting they wouldn't spend heavily on a defensive additions, the Gunners are indeed keen on the 22-year-old Italian defender.

Calafiori had an outstanding tournament at Euro 2024 and has received praise for his performance during the tournament in Germany.

Speaking to Italian outlet Tuttomercatoweb, former Bologna player Fabio Poli believes the loss of the defender will be hard to replace.

"It is certain that they could not be kept in the face of certain offers," Poli said. "Only the field and the new ones will be able to ensure that the backlash can be metabolized.

"However, all players are replaceable aside from Mbappe, Ronaldo or Messi, we fans must have faith in the management. I think it's almost impossible to replace Sartori, but I have to say that Calafiori is also less replaceable than Zirkzee."

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As for Zirkzee, HITC understands that the Dutch striker was left impressed after talks with Erik ten Hag and a move to Old Trafford looks to be in the offing.

Calafiori would be a big loss for Bologna The Italian defender has been compared to that of Franco Baresi and the 22-year-old certainly looks to be the real deal.

Former forward Alessandro Del Piero said of Calafiori: "Calafiori was never scared, it looked like he played 70 games for Italy."

Last season for Bologna, Calafiori played in 30 Serie A games, scoring two goals and providing five assists.

His departure will be felt by those in Italy but Arsenal could be about to get an outstanding centre-back option.