Torino drop striker pursuit after Inter demand Ricci in exchange | OneFootball

Torino were persuaded to change their transfer target after Inter requested Samuele Ricci in exchange for Francesco Pio Esposito, leading the Granata to shift their focus elsewhere.

The young striker is making a strong impression at Serie B side Spezia, where he is currently on loan, prompting Paolo Vanoli’s outfit to initiate talks with the Nerazzurri over a possible deal.

LATINA, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 05: Francesco Pio Esposito with his teammates of Italy U21 celebrates after scoring the team’s second goal during 2025 Under 21 EURO Qualifying Group A match between Italy and San Marino at Stadio Domenico Francioni on September 05, 2024 in Latina, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)

Torino change attacking target after Inter ask to include Esposito in Ricci deal

However, according to Tuttosport, Inter made it clear that any negotiation for the 19-year-old forward would have to include Ricci, a key midfielder for Torino and a player highly regarded by the Biscione’s management.

For the Nerazzurri, offering their starlet in exchange for the Italy international would have been a way to lower the Granata’s high demands while also gaining an edge in the race for a highly sought-after player, who has reportedly attracted interest from Milan, Real Madrid and Manchester City as well.

AS Roma’s Enzo Le Fee (R) vies for the ball with FC Torino’s Samuele Ricci during the Italian Serie A soccer match between AS Roma and FC Torino at the Olimpico stadium in Rome, Italy, 31 October 2024. EPA-EFE/ETTORE FERRARI

Nonetheless, Torino are adamant about not accepting any constraints when negotiating Ricci’s sale—specifically, they are reluctant to include other players in a potential deal, aiming to maximize their financial profit from the 23-year-old’s departure.

As a result, they have quickly turned their attention to another attacking prospect—Cristian Shpendi. The young Cesena striker has been on the club’s radar, and his profile aligns with Torino’s long-term plans.