Gabriel Jesus linked with Napoli move as agent clarifies training camp visit
Speculation Surrounds Jesus’s Future
Speculation regarding Arsenal forward Gabriel Jesus has increased after his representative, Giovanni Branchini, was seen at Napoli‘s pre-season training camp in Castel di Sangro. This sighting occurred as Jesus enters the final 12 months of his contract with Arsenal. Italian reports suggest that Napoli views Jesus as a primary target, particularly if Romelu Lukaku and Lorenzo Lucca depart before the transfer deadline.
Napoli is reportedly looking to reshape its attack under new head coach Massimiliano Allegri, with Jesus identified as a priority signing. Reports indicate that Allegri is keen to strengthen his frontline at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona and considers Jesus an ideal addition. The club is also expected to build its attack around Rasmus Hojlund but seeks another high-profile forward for competition and depth.
Corriere dello Sport reported that Napoli‘s interest in the former Manchester City striker is genuine, and Jesus is believed to be open to a new challenge outside the Premier League. Arsenal reportedly values the 29-year-old at around €20 million, though Napoli hopes to negotiate a lower fee if the player pushes for a move to Italy.
Agent Addresses Napoli Visit and Transfer Rumours
Despite the intense focus on a potential transfer for the Arsenal star, Branchini has moved to clarify the purpose of his visit to Napoli‘s training base. The agent also represents Napoli‘s new head coach, Massimiliano Allegri, and stated that his presence was strictly related to his relationship with the coach, rather than any ongoing negotiations for the Brazilian forward.
Speaking to Videoinformazioni.com, Branchini explained, “Allegri and I have been in touch, I came here today to come and visit him. He’s working hard and he’s happy with everything. He’s always had a good opinion of this team and is satisfied with the work that is being done.”
When questioned specifically about whether Jesus was discussed during his meeting with Napoli‘s hierarchy or coaching staff, Branchini firmly denied it, stating, “I haven’t spoken to Allegri about him.” Italian media outlets noted that Branchini appeared to avoid questions regarding the Premier League star.
Jesus joined Arsenal from Manchester City in 2022. He contributed to the Gunners lifting the Premier League title and reaching the Champions League final before their defeat to Paris Saint-Germain. Given these achievements, his agent seems reluctant to engage in public discussion about his client’s future while the transfer market remains active.
Conditions for a Potential Deal
Any potential deal for Jesus is largely expected to hinge on the departure of Romelu Lukaku from Napoli. The Belgian striker has reportedly had a deteriorating relationship with Napoli‘s hierarchy, casting doubt on his future at the club. Ligue 1 side Monaco has emerged as a leading contender to sign the 33-year-old, as they seek a replacement for Folarin Balogun.
Napoli is understood to be keen on resolving Lukaku‘s future quickly to free up both wages and squad space before pursuing a move for Jesus. When asked if selling Lukaku and Lucca was a vital condition for any deal involving Jesus, Branchini dismissed the suggestion, remarking, “In my line of work, the ‘ifs’ count for very little, not as much as they matter for you journalists. From my point of view, it’s better to not talk about speculation.”
According to Globo and Corriere dello Sport, the Brazilian striker has essentially put himself forward as a candidate for a move, as he is no longer a regular at Arsenal. He recorded 6 goals in 24 appearances last season after recovering from an early serious knee injury. Napoli could consider signing Gabriel Jesus or another striker after sorting out the future of Lukaku and Lucca. Lukaku was given extra vacation days before reporting to the training camp in Castel di Sangro.
Source: goal.com
