Napoli have targeted Gabriel Jesus to strengthen their attacking line ahead of the new season kick-off. The Italian club's interest in the Brazilian striker from Arsenal is described as serious, notably by Globo Esporte, which broke the story. However, the two clubs have not yet entered into any conclusive negotiations.
On the Gunners' side, reigning English champions, the position is clear: no departure will be considered for less than 20 million euros. That is the minimum threshold set by the London club before any official discussions can begin.
A versatile profile, but hampered by injuries
Gabriel Jesus, 29, came through Palmeiras and then Manchester City before joining Arsenal in 2022. Capable of playing as a centre-forward as well as on the wings, he has the all-round profile that Napoli are looking for to bring life to their attack.
Last season, however, he struggled to establish himself in the starting eleven: 27 appearances across all competitions, including only nine starts, for six goals and two assists. Injuries have regularly disrupted his continuity since his arrival in England.
London competition pushing him towards the exit
The emergence of Viktor Gyökeres and the presence of Kai Havertz in the Gunners' attacking line have considerably reduced Jesus's playing time. The Brazilian international has himself expressed his desire to find a more central role, without ruling out a departure.
For Arsenal, selling Jesus would also free up a squad place and reduce the wage bill, two factors that are far from negligible in squad management.
Napoli must convince on several fronts
The Neapolitan club not only needs to reach a financial agreement with Arsenal: it will also need to win over the player himself, whose salary is a central element of the discussions. On this point, Jesus is said to have already expressed his attraction to Italian football and his consideration of Napoli as a serious destination.
The situation therefore remains open, with no definitive agreement yet reached. The coming weeks will reveal whether the two clubs can close the gap between their positions before the transfer window shuts.
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