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Inter Milan Hold Firm on Pio Esposito Amid Premier League Interest

Inter Milan have made it clear they have no intention of parting ways with forward Francesco Pio Esposito this summer. The Serie A champions view the 20-year-old as a key part of their long-term strategy and have rebuffed attempts from both Manchester United and Atalanta to prise him away from the San Siro.

Sources indicate that Manchester United first expressed their interest during the January transfer window while Esposito was still on loan at Spezia. Their approach was swiftly turned down. More recently, Atalanta attempted to include Esposito in discussions related to winger Ademola Lookman, but were similarly rebuffed.

Premier League Proposal Not Entertained

Manchester United, in particular, had been tracking Esposito’s progress closely during his time in Serie B. The English club saw potential in the striker, whose physicality and work rate had impressed scouts across Europe. However, Inter have consistently maintained that the player is not for sale — not now, and potentially not any time soon.

Their stance has been consistent, despite the growing interest. Esposito, who netted 22 times across 79 appearances in Italy’s second division, is seen internally as a key component of the club’s future spine. The player also scored his first senior goal for Inter in last month’s Club World Cup victory over River Plate.

Future Planning Behind Inter’s Decision

Inter’s hierarchy believe Esposito can eventually become a regular contributor at the top level. While other Italian prospects have been moved on in recent windows, Esposito’s profile and development arc have marked him out as different.

The club are in no financial rush to sell, and the youth development staff remain confident that another year in the first-team environment will accelerate his progress. That continuity is especially important as Inter seek to gradually refresh their forward line, with key veterans expected to phase out over the next two seasons.

Lookman Talks Highlight Inter’s Broader Strategy

Atalanta’s recent talks over Ademola Lookman brought further clarity to Inter’s approach. The Nigerian winger is a primary target, and although personal terms have been agreed, Inter are working to reduce the €50 million asking price. Including Esposito as part of any deal was flatly rejected — again underlining how integral he is to their future plans.

The decision not to entertain offers, even from high-profile Premier League clubs like Manchester United, reflects Inter’s increasing emphasis on sustainable squad-building. For now, Pio Esposito remains untouchable.