Napoli Eye Arsenal’s Striker, as Romelu Lukaku Exit Looms

Arsenal forward Gabriel Jesus could be on his way to Italy this summer, with Napoli reportedly considering the Brazil international as a potential replacement for Romelu Lukaku.

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Napoli are planning a major overhaul of their attacking options ahead of next season, with Lukaku among the players who could leave the club. Noa Lang and Lorenzo Lucca are also reportedly at risk of falling out of Massimiliano Allegri’s plans.

Lukaku has already reached a personal agreement with Fenerbahce, but negotiations between the Turkish club and Napoli over the transfer fee are still ongoing. Napoli are demanding around €12 million for the Belgian striker, while Fenerbahce are currently prepared to offer between €7 million and €8 million, including bonuses. Should Lukaku complete his move away from Naples in the near future, Napoli could turn their attention to Jesus.

The Arsenal forward is reportedly open to the possibility of continuing his career in Italy if he leaves north London. His current contract with the Gunners runs until June 2027, but the chances of an extension appear to be diminishing, particularly with the Brazilian having struggled to establish himself as a regular in the first team.

Napoli have already made initial contact regarding Jesus, with the first approach reportedly taking place in early June. However, the Serie A club must first generate funds through player sales before making a serious move for the former Manchester City forward.

The futures of Lukaku, Lucca and Noa Lang are therefore likely to play a crucial role in Napoli’s plans for Jesus. The club need to reduce their wage and transfer commitments while creating room in the squad for new attacking options.

Arsenal’s asking price for Jesus has yet to be definitively established. However, reports from England suggest that the Gunners could be willing to sanction his departure for around €20 million.

With Lukaku’s future still unresolved, Napoli’s pursuit of Jesus is likely to remain dependent on developments in the coming weeks. If the Belgian completes his expected departure, the Brazilian could emerge as one of the club’s leading targets to reshape their attack for Allegri’s first season in charge.