Arsenal have made an enquiry about signing Inter Milan midfielder Nicola Barella, according to FCInternews.it. The Italian website claims the Gunners are targeting a young, dynamic player to strengthen their options in the middle of the park.

However, the Nerazzurri have knocked back the approach, and won’t consider selling the player, who they will sign on a permanent basis from Cagliari on July 1st.

Barella was snapped up on a season-long loan last summer, which cost them €12m (£11m), and they are obligated to make the deal permanent for €25m (£22m), bringing the total cost of the transfer up to €37m (£33m).

The Italian international has been a crucial player for manager Antonio Conte this season, having scored three goals and provided six assists in 29 appearances.

FCInternews.it claim the Serie A side are even considering offering Barella a contract extension, despite his current deal expiring in 2024. It looks certain, then, that Arsenal will need to move on to other targets.