Napoli target Arsenal talent with expiring contract | OneFootball

On the lookout for defensive reinforcements, Napoli have set sights on Arsenal young defender Ayden Heaven, whose contract will expire next June.

At 18, he hasn’t yet become a consistent presence in Mikel Arteta’s first team, mostly playing with the Gunners’ U21 side, but is regarded as one of their most brilliant prospects, with the situation concerning his contract drawing attention from several European clubs.

Napoli eyeing Arsenal’s defensive prospect with expiring contract

According to TBR Football, quoted by Calciomercato.com, Napoli are keeping close tabs on the youngster but face stiff competition from Premier League powerhouses Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United, Chelsea and Newcastle.

The likes of Bayern Munich, Bayer Leverkusen and Borussia Dortmund are also said to be interested in Heaven, especially after Arsenal’s difficulties in making him sign his first professional contract at the Emirates Stadium emerged.

Who is Arsenal talent Ayden Heaven

Born in London, Heaven joined Arsenal at the age of 13 after spending four years at West Ham’s academy.

A physical centre-back with decent technical skills, he came through the youth ranks and earned a place in the pre-season camp with the first team last season, leading coach Arteta to describe him as ‘impressive’.

While the Gunners are still confident about retaining him with a new and improved offer, Napoli’s sporting director Giovanni Manna is keeping a close eye on his situation as he could be an attractive profile to strengthen Antonio Conte’s defence for the next season.