Arsenal are showing interest in a surprise summer move for Inter Milan striker Francesco Pio Esposito, according to reports.
The north London side are reportedly plotting a summer raid on the Serie A club, having identified Esposito as a promising potential addition to Mikel Arteta’s frontline.
Arsenal have made the signing of a young, top-class forward one of their summer priorities, with Esposito among those topping the shortlist ahead of the summer window.
Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta is believed to be keeping close tabs on the situation, having asked for detailed feedback on the striker from the club’s scouts in Italy.
Arsenal Eyeing Francesco Pio Esposito
According to journalist Steve Kay, Arsenal are viewing Esposito as a second-choice striker initially, with the aim of developing the 20-year-old in the long term.
The Gunners only welcomed Sweden international Viktor Gyokeres last summer, while both Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz are also able to provide cover up front.
A move for a new striker would likely require Arsenal to sell at least one of their current number nines, as all three are under contract for at least another season.
Esposito spent the last two seasons on loan at Serie B side Spezia before making his senior debut for Inter at last summer’s Club World Cup.
The ‘top-class’ 20-year-old has amassed 33 first-team appearances across all competitions to date, scoring six goals and providing seven assists.
Arsenal already had the chance to see Esposito at close quarters in their 3-1 win over Inter in the Champions League last month, when the centre-forward featured for half an hour in the second half.
Esposito has won five caps for Italy to date, scoring all three of his goals in World Cup qualifiers.
Arsenal Keeping Tabs on Leon Goretzka
Arsenal are eyeing a free-transfer move for Bayern Munich star Leon Goretzka this summer, according to reports.
The north London side are expected to be among the clubs battling for the Germany international when his contract with Bayern expires in June.
Despite interest from Italian and Spanish clubs, Goretzka is believed to be particularly keen to play in the Premier League and feels English football would suit his style.
The midfielder has lifted the Bundesliga six times during his time with Bayern and won the Champions League in 2020.