Napoli interested in signing Arsenal striker Gabriel Jesus, Gunners value him at £17m | OneFootball

Napoli are exploring a move for Arsenal striker Gabriel Jesus, according to Brazilian outlet Globo.

The 29-year-old was the Gunners’ third-choice striker behind Viktor Gyokeres and Kai Havertz last season, playing for just 421 minutes across 14 Premier League appearances.

Arsenal have already received enquiries for the centre-forward this summer, and Napoli are reportedly interested in bringing him to the Italian top-flight.

The Naples outfit have a ‘very strong’ interest in the former Manchester City man. Jesus would be open to the opportunity to play for the Serie A giants.

Formal negotiations are yet to begin, but Arsenal want at least £17m for his transfer. Jesus is currently represented by the same agency as Napoli manager Massimiliano Allegri.

Jesus may have to accept a huge pay cut to join Napoli

Jesus, described as ‘special‘ by manager Mikel Arteta, has been hampered by long-term injuries during his time at Arsenal.

He still has a decent shot-to-goal conversion rate, but is no longer viewed as a regular starter.

The Gunners already have Gyokeres and Havertz vying for the role up front. The pair have started together in the pre-season matches, with Jesus coming off the bench.

It is quite clear that Jesus is among the players who could head for the exit door. With his contract expiring next summer, Arsenal are open to parting ways with him for the right price.

Napoli are contemplating Romelu Lukaku’s exit and may want another experienced striker to compete with Rasmus Hojlund for the number nine position. Lorenzo Lucca could also depart.

The transfer fee should not be a stumbling block, but Jesus may have to accept a huge pay cut. He is currently one of the highest earners at Arsenal on around £265,000 per week.

Kevin De Bruyne is the highest earner at Napoli with £182,000 weekly, followed by Hojlund, who earns £152,000. Jesus may have to accept something around the middle to make the switch.

This would represent a salary reduction of around 38 percent. The big question remains whether Jesus would take the cut to move on or run down the final year of his Arsenal deal as a squad player.

Arsenal don’t seem desperate to part ways with the Brazilian and are prepared to keep him for another season if he does not find a suitable agreement to join another club this summer.