On Tuesday, Sport Witness covered a report from Gazzetta dello Sport on Arsenal’s enquiry for Inter Milan’s Francesco Pio Esposito. In the past, interest from Manchester United has also been mentioned.
This week, Italy’s pink daily stated the London club were impressed by the 20-year-old during the recent Champions League meeting between the two sides. This led to Mikel Arteta informing Andrea Berta of his interest.
As a result, the Arsenal sporting director spoke to Inter counterpart Piero Ausilio. The door was slammed in the Gunners’ face, with the striker seen as the Nerazzurri’s future.
This wasn’t a surprise, with reports also speaking of Inter’s attempts to hand Pio Esposito a new contract.
The Serie A league leaders took on Como in the Coppa Italia semi-final 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 dismissed
The Italian pretty much mirrored what Gazzetta claimed on Tuesday, clarifying that Pio Esposito is Inter’s future.
Marotta also dismissed Arsenal’s interest quite quickly.
He told Mediaset – relayed by Calciomercato: “Arsenal haven’t asked us. Inter don’t want to sell him and they’re not a club that does player trading .
“He’s one of our treasures who grew up in the youth sector. A possible transfer will be discussed again in the very distant future.”
Beyond that, Calciomercato have also added some detail to Manchester United’s interest in the 20-year-old.
They are certain that the Red Devils made an enquiry about the player about 12 months ago. That is when he was on loan at Spezia and was expected to return to Inter. There is belief that even Arsenal had tried to initiate conversations at that point.
Even then, the San Siro club were very clear in their stance. Now, CM report that he will sign a new contract that will expire in 2030.
This is a big sign of trust from Inter, who see him as their future superstar. While Pio Esposito’s current valuation is about €60m, he is viewed as a priceless possession by the Nerazzurri.
Manchester United & Arsenal don’t need Esposito
While the Italy international is one of the best youngsters in Europe, the two English clubs might not need him.
Manchester United have seen Benjamin Sesko enjoy top form in the last few weeks. Arsenal spent a big amount on Viktor Gyokeres last summer. Spending big on another striker doesn’t make sense, unless something unexpected happens.
That is why Inter is the best place for Pio Esposito’s development. The Serie A league leaders boast stability and this helps in bringing most out of every player.