Inter Milan are preparing to place their trust in Francesco Pio Esposito as part of the starting lineup for the Serie A trip to Udinese, with the young striker ready to partner Lautaro Martinez in attack.

According to Tuttosport, Cristian Chivu continues to weigh up several selection doubts ahead of the afternoon kick-off.

One certainty, however, is Lautaro’s return from the start.

Lautaro Aiming To Break Duck For Inter In Udinese Trip, Pio Esposito Supports Captain

Francesco Pio Esposito Inter Milan
MILAN, ITALY – JANUARY 14: Francesco Pio Esposito of FC Internazionale celebrates after scoring their team’s first goal during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and US Lecce at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on January 14, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

The Inter captain has gone three league matches without scoring and will once again lead the line, this time alongside Pio Esposito.

In midfield, Chivu is expected to deploy Nicolò Barella in the regista role. Piotr Zielinski is set to rest, with the Champions League clash against Arsenal firmly in mind.

That decision opens the door to further rotation in the centre of the pitch.

Tuttosport highlights Davide Frattesi as a key temptation for the Inter coach.

The Italy international enjoyed extended minutes against Lecce, more than he managed across November and December combined.

Frattesi is now competing with Petar Sucic and Henrikh Mkhitaryan for one of the remaining midfield spots.

Elsewhere, Chivu is ready to restore several regulars to the starting XI. Yann Bisseck is set to return in defence. Meanwhile Federico Dimarco and Luis Henrique should also come back in on the flanks.