Manchester United are reportedly in a transfer battle with Arsenal for Inter striker Pio Esposito. United scouts are said to be keeping a close eye on the 21-year-old.
Michael Carrick's side have been linked with an interest in attacking reinforcements in the current transfer window. Joshua Zirkzee is expected to leave Old Trafford with the club wanting more competition and support for Benjamin Sesko.
United willing to wait
Esposito has been named as a possible target, however, The Sun report that United are willing to wait until Inter soften their transfer stance on the forward. That could allow Arsenal to overtake them in the race.
While Inter's official position is that the striker is 'untouchable' during this transfer window, the report suggests they have set a £73 million valuation on him. The player reportedly dreams of playing in the Premier League, though he won't push for a departure from the San Siro.
Competition from Arsenal
United face competition for the transfer from Premier League champions Arsenal, who are also reported to have been monitoring Esposito for some time. Despite that, United are prepared to adopt a patient approach to any potential transfer.
The Italian featured in 35 Serie A matches for Inter last season, netting seven goals and registering three assists. He also contributed a further two goals and two assists across nine Champions League outings.
Esposito's future
Certain reports in Italy indicate that Esposito is expected to pen fresh terms with Inter in recognition of his displays. He provided an update regarding his future while on the pre-season tour.
Speaking to Sky Sports Italia, he said: "I'm very calm, I'm happy here at Inter, it's something that my agent will speak about with the club without any issues.
"The objective is to never settle, to not stop and to always try to improve both in terms of statistics and as a footballer in general.
"We're working hard and preparing well. The tests against Milan and Juventus will be good to measure ourselves. It's always great to play in a derby, even if it's a friendly. We'll go about it in a serious way.
"We're a strong team and will play to win again this year."
