Napoli have turned their attention to Chelsea forward Marc Guiu after Arsenal's Gabriel Jesus reportedly rejected a move to the Serie A club. According to Sky Italy, the 20-year-old Spaniard has been added to Napoli manager Massimiliano Allegri's shortlist as the Italian giants search for a new centre-forward before the summer transfer window closes next week.
Gabriel Jesus deal falls through
Gabriel Jesus had been Napoli's primary target, with Arsenal willing to sell the Brazil international for £20 million. However, reports suggest the 29-year-old, who has struggled with injuries over the past two seasons, is not interested in moving to Italy and could remain at the Emirates Stadium for the 2026/27 campaign.
As a result, Napoli are exploring alternative options, including Chelsea's Nicolas Jackson and Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee. Jackson has been transfer-listed by Chelsea, but Atletico Madrid and Aston Villa are leading the race for his signature. Aston Villa are expected to make an offer should Ollie Watkins be sold to Al Hilal.
Marc Guiu's journey at Chelsea
Guiu joined Chelsea from Barcelona in 2024 for £5 million and made a promising start to his Stamford Bridge career, scoring six goals in seven Conference League games as the Blues lifted the trophy. However, first-team opportunities have been limited, and he was loaned to Sunderland last season but recalled after just 26 days following a lengthy injury to Liam Delap.
Back at Chelsea, Guiu again struggled for game time, starting only five games and playing 527 minutes of football under managers Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior. New head coach Xabi Alonso does not appear to favour him either, with veteran Danny Welbeck signed to support Joao Pedro. Guiu has not even been given a squad number for the new season.
Interest from Spain and Germany
In addition to Napoli, Guiu has attracted interest from clubs in his native Spain and Germany, with Chelsea valuing him at £25 million. Napoli would likely need to sell players before making a purchase, with Dutch winger Noa Lang tipped to leave the club.
Barring a major surprise, Guiu will not feature on Monday night when Chelsea begin their Premier League campaign against local rivals Fulham. The transfer window closes next week, and Napoli face a race against time to secure a new striker before the deadline.
