Arsenal striker Gabriel Jesus could be on his way out of North London before the transfer window closes, with Fabrizio Romano confirming that the forward’s new agent met with Napoli today over a potential summer move to Italy.
Coincidentally, Branchini also represents Napoli head coach Allegri, however, reports from Gianluca Di Marzio indicate that he is in Italy to discuss Jesus and that a new round of formal talks could take place in the coming hours.
Branchini continued: “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.” Then, when asked about Gabriel Jesus specifically, Branchini said: “I haven’t spoken to Allegri about him.” When asked if Lukaku and Lucca would need to be sold in order for Jesus to become a real possibility for Napoli, Branchini replied: “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.”
Arsenal are demanding a €20 million (17.1m) transfer fee for Gabriel Jesus following an approach from Napoli, according to reports. Arsenal are said to have informed Napoli that they would only entertain offers for Jesus in excess of €20m (17.1m). For this reason, Arsenal are hoping to sell the Brazil international outright this summer, as a loan deal, even with an option or obligation to buy would require Jesus to be contracted to Arsenal beyond the 2026-27 season.
If both are to leave, Rasmus Hojlund would be left as Napoli’s only senior option at centre-forward, and there have been reports that Arsenal’s Gabriel Jesus could be the man to fill the void. Furthermore, Napoli are not the sole suitors in the race, and the Italian champions must sanction departures, specifically finding a resolution for Romelu Lukaku, before submitting an official opening bid to Arsenal.