Arsenal are reportedly ‘very interested’ in signing Atalanta goalkeeper Marco Carnesecchi this summer, according to Italian outlet Tutto Atalanta.
Fresh off ending their 22-year Premier League title drought, Mikel Arteta’s side are preparing for a demanding campaign on multiple fronts. While a left winger and a creative central midfielder remain top priorities, the Gunners have also identified reinforcement in goal as a potential area of focus.
The 25-year-old Italian shot-stopper has emerged as a concrete target. Carnesecchi, who has developed into one of Serie A’s most reliable goalkeepers, is under contract at Atalanta until 2028, though the club have offered him fresh terms until 2030. Atalanta are understood to be demanding at least £35 million for his signature and are unwilling to negotiate downwards.
The potential move carries a notable connection: Carnesecchi is represented by Alessandro Lucci, the same agent who handles Arsenal defender Riccardo Calafiori. This existing relationship could help streamline negotiations should Arsenal decide to pursue the deal formally.
Squad Depth vs. Financial Reality
David Raya remains one of the Premier League’s standout goalkeepers and is firmly established as Arteta’s undisputed No.1. His performances throughout the title-winning season, including an impressive display in the Champions League final, have reinforced his status as a key figure for both domestic and European commitments.
Kepa Arrizabalaga served as the reliable backup last season, delivering solid performances in cup competitions, though a costly error in the League Cup final against Manchester City highlighted the occasional vulnerability. Carnesecchi would represent a clear upgrade on Kepa in several areas, particularly with his sharp reflexes. The young Italian made 115 saves in Serie A this season at a strong 77% success rate and has shown encouraging ability with long-ball distribution.
However, Arsenal’s willingness to commit significant funds to a backup goalkeeper remains questionable. With £35 million potentially redirected toward attacking reinforcements or midfield creativity, splashing out on a player who would likely see limited minutes behind Raya could be a difficult sell.
Playing Time Concerns
For Carnesecchi himself, the appeal of a move to the Emirates may be tempered by the lack of guaranteed first-team football. Having established himself as Atalanta’s primary goalkeeper in both Serie A and European competitions, he may be reluctant to accept a secondary role, no matter how prestigious the destination.
In summary, while the interest in Carnesecchi underlines Arsenal’s ambition to strengthen every department, a major outlay on a goalkeeper appears unlikely at this stage. The 25-year-old is more likely to either commit to a new contract at Atalanta or attract interest from domestic rivals.
Inter Milan, who are also in the market for a new goalkeeper, could emerge as strong contenders for his signature should he become available.
Arsenal’s summer window promises to be fascinating. With the Premier League title to defend and Champions League ambitions renewed, every signing will be carefully scrutinized. For now, Marco Carnesecchi remains an intriguing name on the radar — but perhaps not the most probable addition to the squad.