Napoli are preparing to make an approach for Arsenal striker Gabriel Jesus as Romelu Lukaku edges closer to leaving for Fenerbahce.
The Brazilian has reportedly given the Serie A side encouragement over a move to Italy, potentially handing Arsenal a route to a permanent sale this summer.
Jesus has entered the final year of his contract and is behind Viktor Gyokeres and Kai Havertz in Mikel Arteta’s attacking pecking order.
Arsenal are willing to let the 29-year-old leave, but only on terms which avoid simply delaying a decision over his future.
Gabriel Jesus Arsenal exit could move closer
La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that Napoli are waiting for outgoing business before submitting an official offer for Jesus.
Lukaku has reached an agreement with Fenerbahce over a move to Turkey, although the two clubs must still settle the transfer fee.
Napoli are also looking to move another attacker before accelerating their pursuit of Jesus. Once those sales are completed, the Arsenal forward is expected to become a priority target.
Crucially, Jesus is said to be very keen on playing in Serie A and has placed Italy high among his preferred destinations.
That follows another significant development in his future.
ReadArsenal reported on Monday that Jesus had rejected proposals from two Turkish clubs despite Arsenal being prepared to sanction a permanent departure.
Italy therefore appears a much more realistic route out of the Emirates.
Napoli have already spoken to his representatives, while Arsenal made their position clear earlier in the window by insisting they would prefer a permanent transfer rather than another loan.
Jesus joined Arsenal from Manchester City for £45million in 2022, but injuries and increased competition have reduced his role under Arteta.
With Napoli now preparing their next move and Lukaku potentially heading in the opposite direction to Turkey, Arsenal could soon receive the formal offer they have been waiting for.
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