Arsenal have emerged as the leading contenders to sign Inter Milan striker Pio Esposito, valued at £73 million, following the collapse of their ambitious pursuit of Real Madrid's Vinicius Junior. According to The Sun, Arsenal scouts traveled to Australia to watch the 21-year-old in Inter's pre-season friendly against AC Milan on Wednesday, and while he didn't score in the 1-1 draw, he left a strong impression on the Gunners' recruitment team.
Arteta's Search for a Physical Forward
Mikel Arteta has been keen to bolster his attacking options this summer, with only winger Christos Tzolis arriving as a direct replacement for Leandro Trossard. The failed move for Vinicius Junior, who signed a new contract with Real Madrid on Thursday, has intensified the need for a new forward. Napoli are in talks to sign Gabriel Jesus, and Gabriel Martinelli's future remains uncertain, making a striker signing the top priority for the remainder of the transfer window.
Arteta is specifically targeting a physically imposing centre-forward, similar to Viktor Gyokeres and Kai Havertz. At 6ft 3in, Esposito fits that profile perfectly. The young Italian enjoyed a breakthrough 2025/26 season, scoring 10 goals across all competitions as Inter secured a league and cup double. He has also earned nine caps for Italy, netting five goals.
Inter's Stance and Esposito's Ambitions
Despite Inter's public insistence that their academy graduate is not for sale and that they are close to agreeing a contract extension, reports suggest the Italian champions have set a £73m price tag. Esposito is reportedly interested in a future move to the Premier League but is not looking to leave immediately. His agent, Mario Giuffredi, said in March: 'Despite Arsenal's interest, our plans are clear. He's happy at Inter and will be the future of the Nerazzurri for the next ten years. The boy is in love with Inter.'
Manchester United also had scouts present at the match, but they are not preparing an offer this summer. Arsenal, meanwhile, are stepping up their efforts, having tracked Esposito for months. With the Community Shield against Manchester City scheduled for August 16, Arteta will be hoping to finalize his squad soon.
Other Forward Targets
Arsenal have also been linked with Atletico Madrid's Julian Alvarez, PSG's Bradley Barcola, and Everton winger Iliman Ndiaye. However, Esposito appears to be the primary focus now, given his physical attributes and goal-scoring pedigree.
