via Reuters
Arsenal made an approach to sign Pio Esposito, but the young striker is now understood to be on the verge of putting pen to paper on a new long-term contract at Inter Milan, according to CaughtOffside.
Esposito, described by football analyst Ben Mattinson as 'complete', enjoyed a promising debut campaign in Inter's first team last term, netting eleven goals and providing six assists in 50 appearances across all competitions. This form encouraged top clubs across Europe, including the Gunners and Manchester United, to keep close tabs on the prolific youngster.
Arsenal reportedly opened talks with Inter regarding the possible signing of Esposito back in March, as Mikel Arteta eyed cover and competition for Viktor Gyokeres and Kai Havertz.
However, while the north London outfit did make a last-minute enquiry into the 21-year-old's availability, Inter have now reached an agreement with the player over a fresh deal.
Arsenal Set to Miss Out on Pio Esposito
Inter Milan's Francesco Pio Esposito celebrates
It's well documented that Arsenal are in the market for a striker, as well as a left-winger, this summer. The Gunners are expected to lose Gabriel Jesus, who is a target for Napoli, while Gyokeres' mixed displays last season and Havertz's injury worries have exacerbated the need to bolster in this position once again.
Esposito was added to Andrea Berta's shortlist earlier this year, with the Gunners sensing they could acquire the prospect this summer in an opportunistic move. These reports recirculated in recent days, but CaughtOffside suggest that Arsenal's recent approach was rebuffed, as the Italian is instead committing his future to the Milan club.
The Gunners, as well as United, were informed by Inter that he's set to pen a new deal at the San Siro, which will run until 2031.
Having already missed out on Vinicius Junior and Morgan Rogers this summer, this is another blow for the Gunners, albeit not as damaging as failing to sign the aforementioned targets. Berta will now need to turn to alternatives.
Should Arsenal Move for Junior Kroupi or Julian Alvarez Instead?
via Reuters
Arsenal continue to be linked with Bournemouth's Junior Kroupi and Atletico Madrid's Julian Alvarez, who could be viewed as potential alternatives to Esposito.
Kroupi recently suffered a serious foot injury which will keep him out for several months, while Alvarez is expected to be expensive. Nevertheless, the Gunners may well attempt to move for one of the two players.
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Statistical Comparison (2025/26 League Only)
Stat
Appearances
Goals
Assists
Shots Per 90
Chances Created Per 90
Expected Goals Per 90
Expected Assists Per 90
Evidently, the data is split on these options. While Alvarez is the most creative and generally the most well-rounded, Kroupi is more of a goal threat, putting up greater expected goals and shot numbers.
Ultimately, Arteta will need to decide what profile of striker he's prioritising this summer before coming to a verdict on these potential candidates.
All Statistics via FotMob - correct as of 08/08/2026