Australian youth international Panos Armenakas is attracting attention from big name European clubs following his debut for the Udinese first team in a pre-season friendly.
International reports have linked him to European giants Arsenal and Manchester United, but, his management company says he is concentrating his efforts on Bianconeri Friuliani.
The interest was sparked by the 18-year-old's blistering start to his third season in Italy which included an impressive performance at the Peronne Cup in France before making his senior debut in Udinese’s 3-1 friendly win over Olimpija Ljublana.
Armenakas also scored a wonder goal for the youth team in their win over Ascoli.
Sports Entertainment Group director Tassos Papadopoulos, who manages Armenakas confirmed the interest in his client.
“The last three months he’s been attracting massive attention,” he said.
“Panos has one and half years still on his contract which means that in one year he is free to sign for any club.
“There has been interest from many big clubs about him but for now we are only thinking about Udinese. We are negotiating with Udinese to renew his contract but at the same time we are open to discuss with all club that are interested in Panos.”
And in spite of the young Australian capturing the attention of some of the world biggest clubs, which led to him signing with Sports Entertainment Group, he said his focus remained with his club.
“I have really enjoyed my time in Italy so far,” he told FourFourTwo “I have settled in thanks to the welcoming atmosphere at Udinese. It’s been a really great experience sharing the field with some amazing football players and coaches.
“My skills have improved and tactically the Italian game is helping me grow. My goal is to continue to grow as an individual and help my team succeed. I really look forward to the future.”
Armenakas became the youngest Australian to sign with a top flight Italian club when the then 16-year-old signed with Udinese.
And should he debut in the Serie A this year he will become the youngest Aussie to do so.
Armenakas' progress was halted by injury last season but the attacking midfielder has bounced back well which he attributed to his training staff.
“I am lucky to be surrounded by great fitness experts at Udinese,” he added. “They have designed specific strength and conditioning programs for me and helped me become a stronger and more explosive athlete.”
Related Articles

Under the gun: Spurs fans want Ange to be a loser in night of spite

Udinese bid to snatch Arslan back from Melbourne City
