Arsenal and Newcastle United have reportedly suffered a setback in the race to sign 20-year-old Italian international Francesco Pio Esposito from Serie A club Inter Milan.

According to a report by Italian outlet Calciomercato, Arsenal and Newcastle United are interested in Francesco Pio Esposito. The two Premier League giants are eager to bolster their offensive unit by signing a striker in the summer transfer window. So, the 20-year-old Inter Milan attacking sensation has emerged as a target for them.

However, the latest report has brought bad news for Arsenal and Newcastle United, as the Serie A table-toppers are working on a quadruple-your-money contract. The Serie A title contenders are ready to raise the youngster’s annual salary from €1.1 million to €4 million, thus dealing a blow to the prospects of Arsenal and Newcastle United.

How has Francesco Pio Esposito fared as a senior footballer?

Francesco Pio Esposito is the latest promising prospect to rise in prominence in his homeland. The 20-year-old spent his formative years in Italy, rising through the ranks at Inter Milan before making his mark in senior football during his loan spell with Spezia Calcio. However, since returning to Inter Milan, the youngster has been impressive, starting with his exploits at last summer’s FIFA Club World Cup.

The Italian striker has been exceptional this term, scoring eight goals and providing six assists in only 1,799 minutes of game time thus far in the 2025/26 season. Meanwhile, Esposito’s exploits have not gone unnoticed, capturing the attention of several high-profile clubs, particularly from the Premier League. Arsenal and Newcastle United are among the prospective suitors vying for his signature.

Premier League adventure on the horizon?

Arsenal’s interest in Francesco Pio Esposito is somewhat surprising, yet understandable. Even though Mikel Arteta has three strikers in his squad, the Spanish tactician wants more firepower in the final third. Additionally, Kai Havertz has struggled with fitness issues in the last 18 months, while Gabriel Jesus faces an uncertain future at the Emirates.

As for Newcastle United, the Magpies have a similar situation to Arsenal. Even though Eddie Howe has three strikers in his squad, their long-term futures beyond the 2025/26 season are uncertain. Additionally, Yoane Wissa has struggled with fitness issues and poor form this season, while Nick Woltemade may leave Newcastle United after only one season. So, Esposito is a viable target for the Tyneside outfit.

However, the latest report has brought bad news for Arsenal and Newcastle United, as the Serie A table-toppers are working on a quadruple-your-money contract. The Serie A title contenders are ready to raise the youngster’s annual salary from €1.1 million to €4 million, thus dealing a blow to the prospects of Arsenal and Newcastle United, and they must look elsewhere for a new striker.