Arsenal intensifies pursuit of Inter striker Francesco Pio Esposito amid tough negotiations

Arsenal have renewed their chase for Inter Milan striker Francesco Pio Esposito following a failed bid for Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior. Manager Mikel Arteta hopes the 21-year-old can add depth to a forward line that already includes Viktor Gyokeres, Kai Havertz and the departing Gabriel Jesus. Arsenal scouts watched Esposito impress in Inter’s pre-season match against AC Milan in Australia, a performance that also attracted interest from Manchester United.

Despite the growing attention, Inter’s chief executive Giuseppe Marotta dismissed any notion of a sale, stating the club does not trade players and will protect the youngster like a “treasure”. Earlier reports suggested Inter would only consider offers above €100 million, while newer claims cite a fee near £73 million, with the player under contract until 2030. Esposito’s agent Mario Giuffredi confirmed the forward is content at Inter and sees his future there.