Arsenal had representatives in attendance to see Cagliari midfielder Nicolo Barella play against Inter Milan on Friday night, according to reports in Italy.

The Gunners scouts would have been impressed by what they would have seen with the 21-year-old playing an integral role as his side came out 2-1 winners over the Nerazzurri.

Barella did not have everything go his own way. He missed the chance to secure victory in the closing stages of the match when he blasted a penalty over the bar.

Still, the midfielder has been impressing many of Europe’s top clubs. In addition to Arsenal, Chelsea, Napoli and Inter are all said to be keen on signing the player.

The major stumbling block, though, is Barella’s asking price. Cagliari are said to be holding out for €50m (£43m); a figure that no club has been prepared to match so far.

Whether the Gunners are watching the Italian international in view to a summer bid, we shall have to wait and see.