Inter Milan join Arsenal and Napoli in race for Monza striker Gustavo Varela

Inter Milan have joined the clubs monitoring AC Monza forward Gustavo Varela, with Arsenal and Napoli also tracking the 21-year-old, according to journalist Ekrem Konur.

The Portugal Under-21 international has emerged as one of the young forwards attracting interest ahead of the winter transfer window after an impressive run of form. Varela has scored four goals in seven appearances for the Portuguese youth team.

His club record has been even more productive. The striker has found the net nine times and provided one assist in eight appearances in all competitions, figures which have increased attention from a number of European clubs.

Varela is under contract with Monza until 2030, giving the Italian club a strong position should interest develop into a formal approach. However, his future could also be influenced by an agreement involving former club Benfica Lisbon.

Benfica are understood to have negotiated a buy-back clause worth between 9.5m euros and 10m euros. That option could allow the Portuguese club to bring Varela back, although it remains unclear whether they would decide to activate it.

Transfermarkt estimates the Cape Verdean-born striker’s market value at 5m euros. His long-term contract with Monza and the presence of the buy-back clause are likely to be central factors in any potential deal.

With Inter Milan, Arsenal and Napoli all following his progress, Varela could become the subject of competition between several ambitious clubs. Monza would still need to agree to his departure, while Benfica would have to determine whether to exercise their option.

Monza are due to face Napoli in their upcoming ninth league match of the Italian championship.