--- source: thedugout.football generated: 2026-08-23T23:16:36.767Z data_provider: API-Football canonical: https://thedugout.football/clubs/arsenal/news/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZm9vdGJhbGwubG9uZG9uL2Fyc2VuYWwtZmMvdHJhbnNmZXItbmV3cy9hcnNlbmFsLXN0cmlrZXItdHJhbnNmZXItcGlvLWVzcG9zaXRvLTM0NDIzOTkw --- # Arsenal leading race to pull off ‘untouchable’ £73m transfer after Vini Jr snub - **Source:** - **Club:** Arsenal - **Original URL:** https://www.football.london/arsenal-fc/transfer-news/arsenal-striker-transfer-pio-esposito-34423990 The development comes after the Gunners missed out on a move for key target Vinicius Jr, who has agreed a new contract with Real Madrid amid interest from Arsenal. It means that the club will now have to move on to other targets. One of those could be Esposito. The Sun reports that Arsenal had scouts watching the pre-season derby against AC Milan this week, with positive reports making their way back to the Emirates Stadium. FOLLOW OUR ARSENAL FB PAGE! Latest Gunners news, analysis and much more via our dedicated Facebook page While Inter’s public transfer stance is that the 21-year-old is ‘untouchable’ in this transfer window, the report adds that they have actually placed a £73 million price tag on his head. The player himself is also said to be keen on a move to the Premier League, although he won’t force an exit from the San Siro. While Arsenal seem to be leading the race, they do reportedly face competition from Manchester United, who are also are said to have been watching Esposito for some time. The Red Devils are, however, ready to play the waiting game on a potential transfer. The Italian made 35 Serie A appearances for Inter last season, scoring seven goals and providing three assists. He also got a further two goals and two assists in nine Champions League appearances. Some reports in Italy suggest that Esposito is likely to sign a new contract with Inter as a reward for his performances. He gave an update on his future during 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. All the best news, features, updates and analysis from Tom Canton and more straight to your Inbox! Yours in just two simple steps. “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.”