Mannone out to solidify Arsenal spot

Arsenal goalkeeper Vito Mannone said he wishes to become the club’s number one shot-stopper, but is also keen on a return to Italy.

The Italian shot-stopper has impressed in the absence of Wojciech Szczesny and Lukas Fabianski, contributing to the Gunners’ improved defensive displays of late.

And he hopes to keep his place between the sticks for as long as possible and permanently oust Szczesny from the first team.

“Now my goal is to take the starting spot,” Mannone told Corriere della Sera.

“I want to be Arsenal’s number one.”

But Mannone also revealed he has aspirations to return to Italy, favouring a move to AC Milan, in an attempt to boost his chances of earning a call-up for the Italian national team.

“In the future I’d return to Italy and play in Serie A, perhaps with AC Milan, my favourite team,” Mannone added.

“Besides, I hope to reach the national call.”

As Goal.com exclusively revealed earlier this week, Mannone is being targeted by Napoli to replace ageing goalkeeper Morgan De Sanctis.