Gabriel Jesus agent denies Napoli transfer talks amid Arsenal exit links
The agent of Arsenal striker Gabriel Jesus has denied holding transfer talks with Napoli after being spotted at the Italian club’s training ground on Friday.
Jesus has been made available for transfer this summer after entering the final year of his contract at Emirates Stadium.
The 29-year-old fell down the pecking order under Mikel Arteta following a series of frustrating injuries, making just 14 Premier League appearances last season.
Giovanni Branchini, representing the Brazilian forward, was seen at Napoli’s Castel di Sangro complex, sparking speculation of an imminent £17m move.
However, the representative insisted his visit was solely to catch up with Napoli manager Massimiliano Allegri.
“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.”
Gunners seeking attacking reinforcements
Arsenal are reportedly keen to cash in on the former Manchester City attacker to avoid losing him on a free transfer next year.
The North London side currently rely on Viktor Gyokeres and Kai Havertz to lead the line.
Arteta remains in the market for further firepower, with Atletico Madrid’s Julian Alvarez emerging as a primary target.
Selling fringe players is viewed as crucial for the Gunners to fund moves for a world-class forward and defensive cover for the injured William Saliba.
Napoli restructuring forward line
The Serie A giants hold a genuine interest in the South American, though they hope to negotiate down Arsenal’s €20m asking price.
Allegri is currently building his new-look attack around Rasmus Hojlund for the 2026-27 campaign.
The Danish international recently completed a £38m permanent switch from Manchester United following a successful loan stint in Italy.
Further spaces could open up in the Napoli squad, with Romelu Lukaku and Lorenzo Lucca both facing uncertain futures.
When pressed on whether those departures were necessary to facilitate a deal for his client, Branchini refused to be drawn.
“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.”