Arsenal’s reported pursuit of Federico Dimarco has officially reached a dead end, with the Inter Milan full-back reaffirming his commitment to the Nerazzurri.
Despite long-standing interest from Arsenal, which dates back at least three years, Dimarco’s loyalty to his boyhood club and Inter’s stability under Simone Inzaghi have ensured that the 27-year-old will remain a cornerstone of their squad.
The Gunners first emerged as suitors for Dimarco in 2022, when Mikel Arteta’s side were searching for a reliable and versatile left-back to address ongoing concerns in defence.
Reports at the time highlighted Dimarco’s impressive technical abilities, positional awareness, and capacity to contribute both defensively and offensively. Arsenal’s recruitment team saw the Italian international as a player perfectly suited to Arteta’s system, particularly given his ability to thrive in overlapping and underlapping roles on the left flank.
However, even then, Inter made it clear they had no intention of parting with Dimarco.
A product of their youth system, Dimarco’s performances under Simone Inzaghi steadily cemented his place as one of Europe’s most consistent and dynamic left-backs. His contributions in Inter’s domestic and European campaigns made him indispensable, and any attempts from Arsenal to unsettle him were met with resistance.
The Gunners’ interest reportedly reignited during the summer transfer window of 2024, as Arteta sought reinforcements following injuries to key players like Jurrien Timber and then, as the season got under way, to Riccardo Calafiori. Dimarco, who had become one of Inter’s most recognisable and dependable players, was seen as an ideal candidate to address Arsenal’s tactical imbalance.
Yet, much like before, both the player and Inter were unequivocal in their stance. Dimarco’s loyalty to his club and the stability offered by Inter’s project under the ownership of the Oaktree fund made any transfer impossible.
Inter’s long-term vision has been instrumental in retaining their core players. Alongside Dimarco, stars such as Alessandro Bastoni and Nicolo Barella have renewed their contracts, forming the backbone of a team designed for sustained success. Dimarco’s decision to remain at Inter reflects not only his own ambitions but also the environment fostered at the club, where leadership, team cohesion, and a sense of belonging are paramount.
For Arsenal, missing out on Dimarco underscores the challenges of attracting established players who are deeply embedded in successful systems. While the Premier League’s financial allure is undeniable, players like Dimarco prioritise continuity, loyalty, and the promise of winning honours within an environment they trust.