Arsenal are reportedly on high alert for the potential signing of AC Milan's highly-rated teenage defender, Davide Bartesaghi, as the January transfer window approaches.
Gunners' Defensive Target Identified
According to reports from the Italian publication Gazetta Dello Sport, the Premier League leaders have taken a keen interest in the 19-year-old left-back. The North London club are said to be exploring the possibility of luring the Italian youth international to England this winter to strengthen their defensive options.
Bartesaghi's current contract at the San Siro runs until the summer of 2030, meaning AC Milan are under no immediate financial pressure to sell. This stance allows the Serie A giants to hold out for a suitable offer for their promising academy graduate when the market reopens next month.
Profile of a Rising Star
The young defender joined Milan's youth setup from Atalanta twelve years ago and has progressed steadily through the ranks. After beginning to train with the senior squad in 2023, he made his first-team debut in September of the same year during a league victory over Hellas Verona, promptly earning his first professional contract.
Since his breakthrough, Bartesaghi has become a valuable squad member for Milan. To date, he has made 28 senior appearances, with 13 of those coming in the current campaign. He has also contributed two goals from his defensive berth, showcasing an attacking threat from the flank.
How Would He Fit at Arsenal?
For Mikel Arteta's side, Bartesaghi represents a shrewd long-term investment. He would provide increased competition and depth in the defensive department, offering an alternative to the likes of Riccardo Calafiori and academy product Myles Lewis-Skelly.
Described as a modern full-back who enjoys getting forward, his profile fits the attacking demands placed on defenders in Arteta's system. Furthermore, his versatility has been noted; former Milan player and coach Filippo Galli recently suggested Bartesaghi has the potential to even operate as a left-sided centre-back.
Galli was full of praise for the youngster's development, stating: "We must credit this young man for his growth path... He delivers outstanding performances."
Arsenal's Current Form and Focus
The transfer speculation comes as Arsenal continue their pursuit of a first Premier League title under Arteta. The Gunners currently sit top of the table after 17 fixtures, ahead of Manchester City and Aston Villa.
Their most recent league outing was a 1-0 victory away at Everton, secured by a Viktor Gyokeres penalty. They also advanced to the Carabao Cup semi-finals this week after a penalty shootout win over Crystal Palace following a 1-1 draw in normal time at the Emirates Stadium.
Attention now turns to a Premier League clash at home to Brighton & Hove Albion on Saturday. The Seagulls, currently ninth and just five points off the top four, were held to a 0-0 draw by Sunderland in their last match.
