MILAN, ITALY – JANUARY 20, 2026:
Gabriel Jesus of Arsenal reacts
during the UEFA Champions League
FC INTERNAZIONALE v ARSENAL FC
at San Siro Stadium.
Arsenal could soon see Napoli turn their interest in Gabriel Jesus into a concrete move, although the Italians still have work to do first.
Last week, Napoli was reported have a strong interest in the Brazilian. Arsenal would consider a sale for offers starting at €20m (£17.3m).
There had been little progress between the clubs at that stage. An update from Italy now explains what Napoli are doing to put themselves in position to attack the deal.
TuttoMercatoWeb says the Serie A side are clearing players from their squad, with Gabriel Jesus one of the targets they want to pursue once that work is done.
Napoli working through departures
Gabriel Jesus could become a realistic option once Napoli complete several exits from their attack.
Romelu Lukaku is already on the verge of joining Fenerbahce. TuttoMercatoWeb says Napoli have agreed €6m (£5.2m) plus €2m (£1.7m) in bonuses.
Only details concerning the payment structure remain. The Belgian has completed his medical and is expected in Istanbul to sign a two-year contract.
Lukaku’s departure alone, though, apparently won’t be enough for Napoli to launch their move for the Arsenal man.
Noa Lang should be the next player heading out. Ajax are pushing for him, although that deal is linked to Mika Godts potentially joining Paris Saint-Germain.
Once Lukaku and Lang have left, Napoli would have created the financial conditions to make their push for Jesus.
That makes those exits particularly relevant for Arsenal. They could effectively unlock the Italian club’s attempt to meet the Gunners’ demands.
Another sale could clear the way
Gabriel Jesus may still have to wait for one more piece to fall into place. TuttoMercatoWeb adds Napoli could try to sell Lorenzo Lucca before completing another attacking signing. That would further reduce the number of forwards available to Massimiliano Allegri.
There is still no suggestion Napoli have made an offer to Arsenal. The €20m (£17.3m) minimum figure reported by Globo Esporte last week therefore remains the key reference point.
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|Appearances|6||||
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|Minutes per game|26||||
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Jesus was already said to consider Napoli a possible destination because he wants more playing time. He made 27 appearances for Arsenal last season but started only nine.
Napoli now appear to be doing the groundwork required to make their interest more concrete.
Lukaku is almost gone, Lang could follow and Lucca may also be moved on. Once that process is completed, Arsenal should have a much better idea of whether Napoli are prepared to put the required money on the table for Jesus.
Sportwitness
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