Napoli make Gabriel Jesus contact as Arsenal striker open to wage cut

Napoli have stepped up their pursuit of Arsenal striker Gabriel Jesus, with the Brazil international reportedly open to reducing his salary to complete a move to Serie A.

Massimiliano Allegri is keen to strengthen his attacking options, and the Arsenal forward has emerged as one of the club's leading targets as Napoli prepare for changes in their forward line.

According to reports in Italy, Gabriel Jesus has given the green light to a move to Napoli as discussions continue behind the scenes.

The 29-year-old has just one year remaining on his Arsenal contract, expiring in June 2027, and renewal talks are not progressing. That situation could allow Napoli to negotiate a deal below the striker's market value.

A further boost for the Serie A club is the relationship between Gabriel Jesus and Allegri, with both represented by Giovanni Branchini's agency.

Branchini recently visited Napoli's training camp, where he held talks with both Allegri and sporting director Giovanni Manna over the potential transfer.

The report also claims Gabriel Jesus is prepared to lower his current €9 million net annual salary to facilitate the move.

Before moving decisively for Gabriel Jesus, Napoli need to create room in their squad by offloading current forwards.

Romelu Lukaku is expected to leave after attracting interest from MLS side Atlanta United, while Fenerbahçe have also entered the race with an offer reportedly worth €7-8 million.

Meanwhile, Lorenzo Lucca could depart after attracting interest from Lazio and clubs abroad.

Only once those departures are resolved are Napoli expected to intensify negotiations for the Arsenal striker.

Gabriel Jesus has struggled with injuries in recent seasons, limiting his impact despite his proven quality.

With his contract entering its final year, Arsenal face a decision over whether to cash in this summer rather than risk losing the Brazilian on a free transfer in 2027.

Napoli believe the circumstances could present an opportunity to secure an experienced striker on favourable terms.

Napoli's priority is to finalise departures in attack before making a formal move for Gabriel Jesus. If Lukaku or Lucca leave in the coming weeks, negotiations with Arsenal are expected to accelerate as Allegri looks to complete a major addition before the transfer window closes.