Inter Milan loanee Francesco Pio Esposito has recently emerged as one of the brightest talents in Italy. Due to the striker’s impressive form whilst on loan at Spezia, he has attracted interest from Manchester United and Leicester City.
Francesco Pio Esposito Attracts Manchester United
Pio Esposito’s Career So Far
The 19-year-old began his career as part of the Inter Milan academy, where he impressed from a young age. This form continued and eventually led to a loan move to Serie B side Spezia for the 2023/24 season.
In his first season, he struggled to make his mark as he found the net on just three occasions. It was always going to be tough for a young striker to flourish at such a high standard given the physicality and experience of his opponents. However, this would all change this season. He has already scored nine times this season in 19 games with one assist, which shows the vast improvements made. He now sits third in the race for top goalscorer and has helped his side to third in the league.
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As a result of this fine form, interest has come from many sides such as Ajax, Roma and Leicester City. However, all proposals were rejected by Inter as they are said to see the “teenage sensation” as their future striker. Now in December, the speculation persists as journalist Alfredo Pedulla has revealed that Manchester United and Leicester City are interested in his services.
Playing Style
The young goalscorer stands at 189cm tall, which makes him the perfect target man. This allows him to win headers and be physical with defenders despite being so young. This aspect of his game is proven to be strong as he is in the top three percentile for aerial duels this season with an average of 5.68 per 90.
His link-up play is also a key part of his game. He is comfortable back-to-goal and likes to spread play wide out to the wing-backs regularly. His technical abilities, including great passing, ball control, and strength, allow him to excel at this.
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Despite being a complete striker, it is in front of goal where he has most improved. His record of 0.63 non-penalty goals per 90 is in the top 1% in the league and shows how deadly he has become this season.
However, one limitation of his game is pressing. Leading the press is key for sides in the modern game and this would need to be worked on before progressing to the top five leagues in Europe.
How Would He Suit Manchester United?
It is obvious this season that both Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee have struggled. The duo have registered just five goals together, which could be the reason for looking at the transfer market.
Esposito is already used to playing in a five-at-the-back system at both Spezia and Inter so transitioning to the system would be easier. Some of his best work comes through this as he spreads play to the wing-backs and can get on the end of crosses. Therefore, this would be a high-potential option for Ruben Amorim’s squad.
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However, buying another young striker comes with its own issues. They aren’t used to the league and will still be quite raw so they need to be eased in. Furthermore, the two Serie A strikers previously bought haven’t translated well so that is why a more experienced striker should be the first priority for the Red Devils.
