Zirkzee’s replacement? Man Utd make contact with ‘fantastic’ striker considered ‘the great hope of Italian football’ | OneFootball

Manchester United are keeping an eye on Inter Milan youngster Francesco Pio Esposito, who has been one of the best revelations in Serie A this season. 

The Red Devils have already revamped their attack last summer by recruiting Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, and Benjamin Sesko.

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Nevertheless, next summer could witness some additional tweaks, especially with Joshua Zirkzee said to be hellbent on leaving Old Trafford and trying to put his career back on track.

Man Utd & Arsenal following Inter Milan’s Esposito

In addition to Zirkzee’s potential departure, the expected return to Europe should prompt INEOS to add additional bodies to their squad, including the attacking department.

At this stage, the Premier League giants haven’t been closely linked with any striker in particular, but the casting has reportedly begun at Carrington.

According to the Daily Briefing, United have made initial contact with Pio Esposito’s entourage, enquiring about the possibility of a summer transfer.

Likewise, Arsenal also hold a ‘strong interest’ in the young striker who has been hailed as ‘the great hope of Italian football’.

However, the source adds that Inter have closed the door on all suitors, as they’re determined to maintain the services of their academy product.

A closer look at Francesco Pio Esposito

Esposito is the youngest of three brothers who rose through the Nerazzurri’s ranks. The eldest, Salvatore, is a Sampdoria midfielder, while Sebastiano, the middle child, is a dynamic attacker who is having an impressive campaign at Cagliari.

Nevertheless, Francesco Pio has always been considered the most promising. After making his mark in Serie B over the past two campaigns while on loan at Spezia, the centre-forward has set Serie A ablaze in his first campaign in the top flight.

While the presence of top-notch stars like Lautaro Martinez and Marcus Thuram has reduced his playing time, Esposito has been making the most out of his opportunities.

Legendary Italian football manager described him as ‘intelligent’ and ‘fantastic’ following his exploits against Ajax in the Champions League earlier this season.

Sadly for Man Utd, Inter’s stance suggests that Esposito won’t be available on the market anytime soon. That being said, the 20-year-old’s imposing physical presence and his ability to bring the ball down to his teammates make him a bit too similar to Sesko.

Therefore, the Reds might be better off chasing a striker with different characteristics, perhaps a versatile attacker capable of filling various roles on the pitch.