Newcastle monitor Inter striker Francesco Pio Esposito

Newcastle United have stepped up their scouting of young European talent and have been keeping a close eye on Inter Milan forward Francesco Pio Esposito. A club representative was at the San Siro for Inter’s 1-1 draw with Atalanta, a match in which the 2005-born striker scored, and the Magpies have made notable moves in the past 20 days as they eye a dynamic addition to Eddie Howe’s frontline.

Arsenal have also been linked with the player, but Inter have signalled no immediate intention to sell. CEO Beppe Marotta has downplayed any near-term exit, with the club viewing Esposito as the future of their attack; while Newcastle may see a route in around €80m (£69m/$93m), the Italian press suggests any successful bid would likely need to exceed €100m (£86m/$116m).

Inter are preparing a long-term contract to keep the forward until 2031 and to raise his wages from roughly €1.1m a year to about €4m, moves intended to ward off interest from England.

Italy, Milan

francesco esposito, inter milan, newcastle united, arsenal, eddie howe, beppe marotta, €80m bid, €100m bid, contract 2031, raise wages