Napoli have stepped up their interest in Arsenal striker Gabriel Jesus.
According to Ge Globo, the Italian club are seriously considering a deal and have identified Jesus as a key attacking target after monitoring his situation in north London.
Arsenal are understood to value the 29-year-old at around £17 million (€20m), although negotiations between the clubs are still at an early stage.
The Gunners are not actively pushing Jesus towards the exit, but a sale is viewed as a possibility should the right offer arrive.
Jesus’ future has become a talking point after he found regular starts difficult to secure during Arsenal’s Premier League title-winning campaign.
The Brazil international featured 27 times in all competitions last season but started only nine matches, with Mikel Arteta frequently rotating his striking options.
Competition for places has become even stronger this summer.
Arsenal have continued reshaping their squad following their title triumph, while the club also remain linked with further additions before the transfer deadline.
That has inevitably created uncertainty around several fringe first-team players.
Jesus has nevertheless made a positive impression during pre-season.
The former Manchester City forward came off the bench to score in Arsenal’s convincing 4-1 victory over Girona after also featuring as a substitute in the defeat to Real Betis.
Arteta has consistently praised Jesus’ professionalism and versatility, with the Brazilian capable of playing across the front line as both a central striker and wide forward.
Napoli’s admiration is nothing new.
The Italian side previously explored a move for Jesus before his switch to Arsenal, but the player opted to continue his Premier League career instead.
A transfer to Naples is now said to appeal to the striker as he considers opportunities for more consistent first-team football ahead of another important season with Brazil.
Despite the growing speculation, Arsenal are under no pressure to sell.
Jesus remains under contract and is regarded as an experienced member of Arteta’s dressing room after making more than 120 appearances for the club since arriving from Manchester City in 2022.
He has contributed 32 goals and 18 assists in Arsenal colours while helping the club lift the Premier League title for the first time in 22 years.
Whether Napoli are prepared to meet Arsenal’s valuation remains to be seen, but the interest represents another significant development as clubs across Europe continue monitoring the futures of several senior Gunners before the summer window closes.