Arsenal forward not interested in exit proposal despite standing interest
Gabriel Jesus is reportedly not interested in joining Napoli at present, creating another complication for Arsenal as they attempt to resolve the striker’s future before the transfer deadline.
According to transfer journalist Matteo Moretto, Jesus is currently not open to the proposed switch to the Serie A club despite Arsenal maintaining a good relationship with Napoli.
The 29-year-old is instead prepared to take his time before deciding which opportunity represents the best next step in his career.
That stance represents a significant change from reports earlier this month suggesting that Jesus had given his approval to Napoli as a possible destination.
La Gazzetta dello Sport previously reported that the Brazil international was receptive to the move, while Napoli had reopened contact with Arsenal to establish the conditions required for a permanent transfer.
However, Moretto’s latest information indicates that Jesus has not been convinced to proceed and is prepared to wait for other possibilities.
That could prove frustrating for Arsenal because the striker has entered the final year of his contract at the Emirates Stadium, leaving the club with a decision to make over whether to cash in this summer or risk his value diminishing further.
Jesus’ position in Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta’s squad has also become increasingly uncertain following changes to the attacking department.
The Brazilian was omitted from the squad for Sunday’s 3-0 Community Shield victory over Manchester City despite being fit, further fuelling speculation that Arsenal are prepared to sanction his departure.
Napoli appeared to offer a realistic route out after stepping up their interest this month, particularly following Romelu Lukaku’s departure for Fenerbahce.
The Italian champions have nevertheless continued assessing other attacking options, with Football Italia on Wednesday linking them with Chelsea forward Nicolas Jackson and Manchester United’s Joshua Zirkzee as well as Jesus.
Arsenal therefore cannot assume Napoli will wait indefinitely while Jesus considers his options.
For the Gunners, the priority will be finding an outcome that suits both parties during the remaining days of the window rather than forcing through a move the player does not want.
Jesus joined Arsenal from Manchester City in 2022 and has experienced an injury-disrupted four years in north London, but his versatility and Premier League experience could still attract alternative suitors.
Unless his position on Napoli changes, Arsenal may now have to look elsewhere for a permanent buyer or retain the forward for the final year of his contract.
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