Gabriel Jesus turns down Napoli

Gabriel Jesus, who joined Arsenal in 2022, is in the final year of his contract and has made it clear he does not want to move to Italy. Napoli had been keen on the Brazilian striker, but after his rejection the club redirected its search.

Marc Guiu takes centre stage

Chelsea’s 20-year-old forward Marc Guiu, signed from Barcelona in 2024, has struggled for first-team opportunities. He has only played five games for the Blues, totalling 527 minutes under managers Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior. Guiu’s most regular action came in the Europa Conference League, where he scored six goals in seven appearances as Chelsea lifted the trophy in 2025.

Chelsea’s squad situation

Under new head coach Xabi Alonso, Chelsea’s attacking options are limited. Joao Pedro is the first-choice striker, and the club has added veteran Danny Welbeck to provide cover. Guiu remains on the fringes, and his lack of minutes is a concern for a club looking to strengthen its forward line.

Napoli’s new plan

Massimiliano Allegri, who replaced Antonio Conte, is eager to bolster Napoli’s attack after Romelu Lukaku departed for Galatasaray. The club has already signed Rasmus Hojlund permanently from Manchester United and is reportedly interested in Guiu, who is valued by Chelsea at £25 million - a significant profit on the £5 million fee paid for him.

Financial and transfer context

Napoli finished second last season but are entering a new era under Allegri. The Italian side may need to sell players to fund new signings, with Dutch winger Noa Lang tipped to leave. Chelsea and Napoli have already completed a summer deal, sending Benoit Badiashile on loan to Italy.

Potential impact

If Guiu joins Napoli, he would add depth to a squad that has struggled for consistent attacking output. The move would also free up Chelsea’s budget, allowing the club to pursue other targets.

Current status

Napoli’s interest in Guiu is confirmed by Sky in Italy, and the club is reportedly ready to negotiate a transfer that would bring the 20-year-old into Serie A. Chelsea’s valuation of £25 million makes the deal an attractive proposition for Napoli.

Concrete detail

Chelsea value the striker at £25 million, a notable profit on the £5 million they paid to sign him.