Arsenal scout Italy’s rising striker Esposito after Turkey win

Premier League champions Arsenal dispatched scouts on Monday to watch Inter centre‑forward Francesco Pio Esposito as Italy secured a 4‑1 victory over Turkey in the Nations League. The scouting mission was confirmed by reports from TeamTalk, confirming Arsenal’s interest in the 21‑year‑old striker.

Esposito has emerged as one of Europe’s hottest young forwards after a breakthrough season in Inter’s double‑winning 2025‑26 campaign. He began the 2026‑27 Serie A season with two goals and an assist from four starts, underscoring his growing influence at club level.

International form fuels interest

His international record is equally impressive, having netted six goals from 11 caps – a 0.55‑goal‑per‑game ratio that outpaces the legendary Roberto Baggio and any player since Gigi Riva. The fourth goal against Turkey, scored on Monday, added to his tally and highlighted his scoring rate for the Italy national team.

Inter remain firm that Esposito is central to their forward line, emphasizing his long‑term contract that runs until the summer of 2032, signed in September. The club believes the new deal will deter Premier League suitors, despite interest from several of Europe’s biggest clubs.

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Arsenal’s scouting focus

Arsenal’s scouting staff observed Esposito’s performance in Bursa, confirming the club’s continued monitoring of his development during the early stages of the 2026‑27 season. The Gunners, having won the Premier League, are reportedly evaluating whether the Italian striker could fit into Mikel Arteta’s plans.

Esposito’s rise has been documented across multiple venues: he celebrated a Serie A match for Internazionale against AC Monza at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on 22 August 2026 in Milan, Italy, and was later seen with Italy teammates ahead of a Nations League group‑phase match against France at Stade de France on 2 October 2026 in Paris, France.

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While Inter’s academy graduate continues to excel for both club and country, Arsenal’s interest adds another chapter to a story that could reshape the striker’s future, pending any potential transfer negotiations.