on tuesday, sports witness Gazzetta dello Sport covered a report on Arsenal's inquiry for Inter Milan's Francesco Pio Esposito. In the past, there has also been interest from Manchester United mentioned.
This week, Italy's Pink daily said the London club were impressed by the 20-year-old during the recent Champions League meeting between the two sides. This led Mikel Arteta to inform Andrea Burta of his interest.
As a result, Arsenal's sporting director spoke to Inter counterpart Piero Ausilio. With the door slammed in the Gunners' faces, the striker was seen as the future of the Nerazzurri.
This was no surprise, with reports also suggesting Inter's efforts to hand Pio Esposito a new contract.
The Serie A league leaders take on Como in the Coppa Italia semi-finals last night. The game ended in a 0–0 draw but Inter CEO Beppe Marotta was asked about Arsenal's interest in the young striker.
Arsenal interest rejected
The Italian largely echoed what Gazzetta claimed on Tuesday, making it clear that Pio Esposito is the future of Inter.
Marotta also quickly rejected Arsenal's interest.
He told Mediaset – relayed by transfer market: “Arsenal haven't asked us. Inter do not want to sell him and they are not a club that buys and sells players.
"He is one of our treasures who has grown up in the youth area. A possible transfer will be discussed again in the distant future"
Furthermore, Calciomercato has also added some details regarding Manchester United's interest in the 20-year-old player.
He is sure the Red Devils made an inquiry about the player around 12 months ago. He was then on loan at Spezia and was expected to return to Inter. It is believed that Arsenal also tried to open negotiations at that time.
Nevertheless, the San Siro club was very clear in its stance. Now, the CM reports that he will be signing a new contract which will expire in 2030.
This is a great sign of confidence from Inter, who see him as their future superstar. While Pio Esposito's current valuation is around €60m, he is seen as an invaluable asset by the Nerazzurri.
Manchester United and Arsenal do not need Esposito
While the Italy international is one of the best youngsters in Europe, the two English clubs probably don't need him.
Manchester United have seen Benjamin Cesco enjoy top form over the past few weeks. Arsenal spent big money on Victor Gyöckeres last summer. There is no point spending big on another striker unless something unexpected happens.
That's why Inter is the best place for Pio Esposito to develop. The Serie A league leaders boast stability and this helps each player get the most out of it.
