Napoli step up interest in Arsenal forward Gabriel Jesus as Allegri eyes reunion

Italian Serie A club Napoli are reportedly considering a move for Arsenal forward Gabriel Jesus as new manager Massimiliano Allegri looks to strengthen his attacking options ahead of the new season.

According to Sky Italia, Napoli have identified the Brazilian striker as a potential transfer target, with Allegri understood to be a long-standing admirer of the 29-year-old.

The possibility of a move could be strengthened by the relationship between Jesus and Allegri’s agent, Giovanni Branchini, who represents both the Arsenal forward and the Napoli manager.

Branchini was reportedly spotted on Friday at Napoli’s pre-season training camp in Castel di Sangro, fuelling speculation that discussions over potential transfers could be underway.

A meeting could reportedly be held to explore the possibility of Jesus moving from Arsenal to the Italian champions.

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Napoli’s ability to pursue the deal, however, could depend on developments involving their current strikers. The club may need to create space in its squad and finances by finding new destinations for Lorenzo Lucca or Romelu Lukaku.

Lucca spent last season on loan at Nottingham Forest, while Lukaku remains another option in Napoli’s attack.

Should either player leave, Napoli could be in a stronger position to make a formal approach for Jesus.

Arsenal are reportedly willing to consider offers of around £18 million for the Brazilian, who has entered the final year of his contract with the Premier League club.

Jesus joined Arsenal from Manchester City in 2022 and has since been part of Mikel Arteta’s attacking setup. However, his future at the Emirates has come under increasing speculation as the club continues to reshape its squad.

A move to Napoli would represent a return to Serie A for Jesus and could give Allegri the opportunity to work with a forward he has reportedly admired for several years.

For now, no formal agreement has been reached, but Napoli’s reported interest and Branchini’s presence at the club’s training camp could pave the way for further discussions over a potential transfer.