Napoli’s €20m gamble on Gabriel Jesus hinges on Manna

Napoli are poised to seal a €20 million move for Arsenal striker Gabriel Jesus, with sporting director Giovanni Manna racing against the final 12 days of the summer window to make the deal financially viable, as the Jesus‑Napoli saga now hinges on Manna.

The report, tagged Stampa A− A+, notes that Il Napoli have identified Gabriel as their priority for the attack. Director Giovanni Manna must convince the Brazilian forward while finding a solution that fits the club’s budget.

Gabriel Jesus remains under contract with Arsenal, but his playing time has dwindled. He was omitted from the Community Shield squad against Manchester City, signalling a reduced role under Mikel Arteta, and his contract runs until 2027.

Price and wage challenge

Arsenal could consider an offer around €20 million, a figure the club deems manageable. However, Jesus draws about €6 million net per season, a salary that would test Napoli’s financial parameters.

Napoli set €30m price as Premier League clubs eye McTominay

Napoli’s recent activity in Calciomercato shows strong links with Premier League sides. The club has negotiated deals involving Chelsea and Manchester United, as well as transfers for Badiashile and McTominay.

Backup targets

If the Jesus deal stalls, Napoli have turned to Nicolas Jackson. The Senegalese forward, born in 2000, spent a season on loan at Bayern Munich for roughly €16.5 million; Bayern declined a buy‑out set at about €65 million, and Jackson has since returned to Chelsea.

Another option is Dutch striker Joshua Zirkzee, who previously played for Bologna. Juventus have shown interest, making him a plausible alternative for Napoli’s attacking reinforcements.

Manna’s deadline is tight: with only the last 12 days of the market remaining, securing Gabriel Jesus or an adequate replacement will define Napoli’s offensive outlook for the upcoming season.