Pio Esposito: Big obstacle cleared in Man United’s chase for Italian hitman | OneFootball

Manchester United may look to land another capable striker.

This move could be motivated by the growing uncertainty surrounding Joshua Zirkzee‘s long-term future at M16.

The Dutchman, who is more of a false nine playmaker type than an out-and-out striker, has failed to establish himself at United. He finds himself on the bench more often than on the pitch, and reports suggest the situation is leaving him increasingly frustrated.

Dissatisfied with his standing at the club, he is now thought to be eyeing a move away to rescue his career.

Should he push for an exit, INEOS have no intention of being caught off guard. The United decision-makers already have a list of capable replacements in mind.

Esposito on United’s radar

One such replacement is Inter Milan’s exciting young striker, Francesco Pio Esposito. The 20-year-old is very much a man on the rise.

After a brilliant loan spell at Spezia in the 2024–25 season, during which he racked up 19 goals and three assists in 39 games, Inter opted to hand him a chance at the first team this season.

While he has not been quite as prolific for the Nerazzurri as he was out on loan, there have been genuine glimpses of brilliance from the youngster as he has featured for the Italian table-toppers.

Described as a classic target man with modern mobility, Esposito has turned heads all over Europe, with Ciro Immobile himself saying he sees something of himself in the striker.

Top clubs have been blown away by his excellent aerial ability, intelligent off-the-ball movement, and strong hold-up play. He operates effectively in the box whilst also linking play well.

A big obstacle out of the way

Whilst The Peoples Person has covered a report claiming Arsenal as a significant rival for United in this race, an interesting update has since emerged.

According to Mateo Moreta and Fabrizio Romano, as quoted by Football 365, a battle between the two Premier League heavyweights may not materialise after all. Moreta was unequivocal: “Arsenal are not interested in Pio Esposito.”

Romano echoed that sentiment, “Esposito is one of the most talented strikers around, and so it’s obvious to know the player, and also Arsenal director Andrea Berta is Italian and follows Serie A very well, so it’s pretty obvious to follow a player like Esposito, but that’s it.

“Arsenal never made a proposal, they never approached anyone, they are just following several players.

“And I think eventually in terms of skills, when Arsenal decide to add a player up front, I think it’ll be different kind of skills.”

With Arsenal effectively out of the picture, then, INEOS may find one major obstacle removed from their pursuit of the ideal Zirkzee replacement.

Inter need to be convinced, though

However, Arsenal were only one of two hurdles in this deal; Inter presented the other.

The Nerazzurri are reportedly reluctant to let the young striker leave. His impressive loan performances, combined with eight goal contributions in the league this season, have convinced the club that they have a future superstar on their hands, and they are determined to keep him.

It may well take a staggering fee to change their minds. Whether United are prepared to break the bank for the Italian remains to be seen. Featured image Alessandro Sabattini via Getty Images

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The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social