Manchester United make Francesco Pio Esposito move as Inter Milan stand firm

Manchester United have made an attempt to sign Inter Milan striker Francesco Pio Esposito this summer, but the Serie A champions remain determined to keep hold of one of Italy's brightest young talents.

The 21-year-old has attracted growing interest after an impressive breakthrough campaign, with several Premier League clubs monitoring his development. However, Inter have made it clear they have no intention of allowing the forward to leave.

According to Italian journalist Alfredo Pedullà, Manchester United are among the clubs to have tested Inter's resolve, but their approach has been firmly rejected.

Pedullà reports that Inter have resisted interest from several clubs, "especially Manchester United," insisting there is "no room for manoeuvre" regarding Esposito's future.

The report adds that the Italian champions were unwilling to consider offers of any size, underlining just how highly they rate the striker.

Manchester United are not alone in their admiration.

Arsenal have tracked Esposito for some time, while Newcastle United have also been linked with a significant move as Premier League clubs search for emerging attacking talent.

Despite that interest, Inter's position has remained unchanged throughout the summer.

Esposito returned to Inter after two productive loan spells at Spezia and established himself as an important member of the first-team squad last season.

The Italy international made 48 appearances in all competitions, scoring 10 goals and providing six assists while earning regular minutes for the Serie A champions.

His development has also been reflected in his market value, which has risen significantly over the past year as his reputation continues to grow.

Rather than considering a sale, Inter are reportedly preparing to reward his progress with improved contract terms.

Esposito signed a long-term contract extension until 2030 in April 2025, and reports suggest he has given priority to remaining with Inter despite growing interest from England.

Negotiations over an improved deal are ongoing, with Inter reportedly planning to increase his salary as they continue building around one of their most promising academy graduates.

For Manchester United, the situation highlights the difficulty of signing elite young forwards from Europe's biggest clubs. While interest in Esposito remains genuine, Inter's determination to keep him means any move appears highly unlikely during this transfer window.

Manchester United may now be forced to pursue alternative striker targets unless Inter's stance changes later in the transfer window. Meanwhile, the Serie A champions are expected to continue discussions over a new contract that reflects Esposito's growing importance to the squad.