Sky Sports reports that Arsenal are closely monitoring the development of AC Milan left-back Davide Baltessaghi and are eyeing one of Italy’s most exciting young defenders.
The 19-year-old has quickly emerged as an outstanding talent in Serie A and is currently attracting attention from across Europe thanks to his rapid development and impressive performances at the top level.
A product of AC Milan’s famous youth organization, Baltessaghi is widely regarded as one of the most promising defenders in Italian football.
Attack-minded by nature, he combines speed, technical quality and positional intelligence to make him a modern full-back who can influence the game at both ends of the pitch.
Baltessaghi attracts Arsenal’s attention
His style of play has led some in Italy to compare him to legendary Milan defender Paolo Maldini, which speaks volumes about the level of expectations surrounding him.
Despite his young age, Barthesaghi already has significant experience in the first team. He has made 28 first-team appearances in all competitions for Milan, showing that he is trusted by the coaching staff.
This season alone, the teenager has made 11 appearances in Serie A, often against elite opposition, and has shown maturity beyond his years in pressure situations.
His growing confidence was on full display in Milan’s recent league match against Sassuolo, with Barthesaghhi scoring an eye-catching second goal.
The performance kept Milan firmly in the title race, with Massimiliano Allegri’s side trailing rivals Inter by just one point at the top of Italy’s top flight.
For the teenage full-back to score a crucial goal in these circumstances only fuels interest in his future.
Gunners want to invest in young players
From Arsenal’s point of view, Barthesagi fits the profile that the club have increasingly targeted in recent periods. Technically talented young athletes are already competing at a high level and have the potential to develop into elite athletes.
Mikel Arteta’s side have prioritized full-backs who can contribute in the build-up, provide width and remain solid defensively, and those are qualities Baltessagi has consistently shown.
Italian sources say the youngster is also closely watched in the national team and could be in contention for a place in Italy’s squad for next summer’s World Cup if he continues to develop.
No formal approach has been made and it is understandable that Milan would like to keep hold of one of their prized academy graduates, but Arsenal’s interest shows how highly regarded Baltessaghi is outside of Italy.
Source: Arsenal, Chelsea, Man United eyeing signing of wide player valued at 35-40 million euros
