Inter Milan is firmly committed to retaining young striker Francesco Pio Esposito, rebuffing inquiries from both Manchester United and Atalanta for the 20-year-old talent.
The Nerazzurri have a long-term vision for Esposito`s development and are not entertaining any offers for the forward this summer, regardless of price. Sources close to the situation reveal that Inter already rejected approaches from Manchester United in January and more recently from Atalanta.
United expressed interest when Esposito was on loan at Spezia in Serie B earlier this year. Atalanta`s inquiry came during recent negotiations with Inter regarding Ademola Lookman. However, Inter made it clear that Esposito is not for sale.
Over the past two seasons on loan at Spezia, Esposito impressed by scoring 22 goals in 79 appearances in Italy`s second division. He also netted his first goal for Inter`s senior team last month in a Club World Cup victory over River Plate.
Inter`s refusal to consider offers for Esposito demonstrates their belief in his potential to become a key player for the club in the coming years. The Nerazzurri are focused on nurturing his talent in-house rather than cashing in on the young striker`s growing reputation.
As Inter aims to remain competitive domestically and in Europe, keeping hold of promising academy products like Esposito will be crucial to their long-term strategy. The club clearly views him as an important piece of their future plans.