Inter Milan chief makes Arsenal transfer statement amid wonderkid links

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Arsenal were left impressed by Inter Milan academy product Pio Esposito after facing the Italian side in the Champions League earlier this year

Inter Milan president Giuseppe Marotta has delivered a firm message in response to Arsenal's reported interest in rising talent Pio Esposito. The 19-year-old, one of the most talked‑about young players in Italy, is said to have caught Arsenal's eye.

The 20-year-old forward's display against the Gunners impressed them during their 3-1 Champions League win over the La Liga side in January, prompting Mikel Arteta to instruct sporting director Andrea Berta to gather detailed scouting information.

According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Berta enquired about the terms of a potential deal, including price and availability, but was met with a defiant refusal.

To make matters more difficult for Arsenal, talks are expected to resume before the season ends as Inter look to secure the youngster on improved terms.

Marotta has shut down those rumours, however, stating that no approach has been made.

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"No, they have not asked for information," he said. "Inter does not want to sell and does not make player trading its main activity.

"He comes from the youth sector and we guard him like a treasure. Everything can happen in the future but it will be a distant future."

Esposito remains under contract at the San Siro for another four years, and Inter are said to have no intention of negotiating a deal.

Arsenal may look to strengthen their attacking options in the summer. Kai Havertz has faced repeated injury setbacks, with his latest hamstring issue ruling him out of the last five matches after a season-ending problem last year.

Gabriel Jesus is still working his way back to full fitness following his own injury troubles.

As a result, much of the goalscoring responsibility has fallen on summer signing Viktor Gyokeres, who has stepped up with goals in five of his last six appearances. The Swede has still attracted criticism after a challenging first Premier League campaign.