Napoli will reportedly try to extend striker Gonzalo Higuain’s contract and insert a hefty buy-out clause in order to resist fresh interest from a trio of Premier League clubs and Barcelona.
According to Italian source TuttoSport, Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United have made contact with the Argentina international’s agent amid growing concern in Naples that the 26-year-old could leave during the summer transfer window.
Catalan giants Barca are long-term admirers despite his old affiliation with bitter rivals Real Madrid, and they remain hopeful of luring him back to La Liga just one year after his switch to Serie A.
The report claims Napoli plan to tempt him with a lucrative new deal which will also include a £55m release clause, which they hope will cause his suitors to abandon their pursuit and look elsewhere.
Higuain is thought to be tempted by the prospect of returning to Spain but is unlikely to make a final decision until Argentina’s World Cup campaign is over.
If Arsenal do firm up their interest with a bid it will be the second successive summer they have attempted to land the forward.
They led the chase for him 12 months ago but missed out to Napoli and failed to buy a recognised striker.
Higuain scored 22 goals in 42 appearances in all competitions last season.