BREAKING NEWS: Arsenal Scouts in Italy as Davide Bartesaghi Emerges as Next Calafiori-Style Target
Arsenal are once again turning their attention to Italy, as reports confirm that club officials are in the country to monitor AC Milan starlet Davide Bartesaghi, with talks expected to progress over the weekend.
The 19-year-old defender, who has only made a single Serie A appearance this season, is beginning to attract serious interest from top European clubs despite his limited first-team exposure. His cameo against Napoli last weekend has sparked further intrigue, particularly with Milan set to hand him his first start of the season against Juventus due to Pervis Estupiñán’s suspension.
Italian journalist Carlo Pellegatti revealed via his YouTube channel, relayed by MilanNews, that Arsenal have sent scouts to watch Bartesaghi in action. He explained:
“Arsenal are interested in Bartesaghi. There have been no offers yet, but Arsenal scouts will be at the Allianz Stadium on Sunday to watch him closely. Let’s not forget, Arsenal followed a similar path with Riccardo Calafiori before signing him, and Bartesaghi has also received high praise from former Milan players.”
Bartesaghi is under contract with AC Milan until 2030, so any potential deal would likely be complicated. However, Arsenal’s growing presence in the Italian market—highlighted by their successful pursuit of Calafiori—suggests they are laying the groundwork for future negotiations.
The young defender’s versatility is one of his most attractive qualities. Much like Calafiori, Bartesaghi is capable of operating as a left-back, left midfielder, or centre-back, offering tactical flexibility that suits Mikel Arteta’s system. While he has yet to gain consistent first-team experience, his development is being closely tracked, and Arsenal are clearly among the clubs keeping a watchful eye.
For now, Bartesaghi remains a raw but highly promising talent. Should he continue his progression at Milan, Arsenal may look to repeat the Calafiori formula and bring another rising Italian defender to North London.