Arsenal ‘fans’ of Inter Milan star as Tonali transfer door opens

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Arsenal have been confirmed as admirers of Inter Milan forward Pio Esposito, while a potential route to Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali may have opened up following Manchester United’s reported pursuit of Bruno Guimaraes.

The Gunners are preparing for Sunday’s Carabao Cup final against Manchester City, with the opportunity to secure their first major trophy since the 2020 FA Cup triumph. Mikel Arteta’s side remain in contention for four competitions, holding a nine-point Premier League advantage and having recently secured Champions League quarter-final qualification with victory over Bayer Leverkusen.

Esposito interest confirmed but move unlikely

Arsenal’s interest in 20-year-old Italy international Pio Esposito has been confirmed by the player’s agent, Mario Giuffredi. The forward has impressed during his breakthrough season at Inter Milan, netting eight goals across all competitions and scoring three times in five senior appearances for Italy.

“Despite Arsenal’s interest, our plans are clear,” Giuffredi stated on Radio CRC. “He’s happy at Inter and will be the future of the Nerazzurri for the next 10 years. The boy is in love with Inter.”

The comments suggest Arsenal may need to look elsewhere as they consider potential changes to their forward line this summer, with uncertainty surrounding the futures of Gabriel Jesus and Gabriel Martinelli.

Tonali opportunity emerges

Meanwhile, a potential pathway to Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali has emerged following Manchester United’s reported advanced negotiations for his teammate Bruno Guimaraes. The Brazilian’s potential £69million departure could complicate Newcastle’s stance on allowing both midfielders to leave in the same window.

Tonali, who was previously linked with Arsenal during the winter transfer window, has also attracted interest from Juventus. However, reports suggest the Italian giants believe they cannot match the financial power of English clubs, potentially leaving Arsenal with an unchallenged opportunity to pursue the former AC Milan star.

The development comes as Arsenal may need to think creatively in the summer transfer market due to potential PSR considerations, though this wouldn’t necessarily prevent the signing of senior players.

With the crucial stages of the season approaching, Arsenal’s transfer planning continues alongside their pursuit of silverware across multiple competitions.