Napoli and Arsenal tracking Monza striker Gustavo Varela

Gustavo Varela’s outstanding start to the season has attracted interest from Napoli and Arsenal, with the 21-year-old emerging as one of Serie A’s leading young forwards.

The Portuguese striker, who is of Cape Verdean origin, has scored seven goals and provided one assist in seven league appearances for Monza. His record across all competitions stands at nine goals in eight games after he scored twice against Avellino in the Coppa Italia.

Varela was especially influential in Monza’s 4-0 victory over Cagliari on 19 October, scoring twice and setting up another goal. Four days later, he found the net against Torino, although Monza lost 3-2.

According to journalist Nicolo Schira, scouts from Napoli attended that match to watch the forward. La Gazzetta dello Sport also reports that Napoli are among the clubs monitoring Varela, while Arsenal are following his performances closely.

Monza signed Varela from Benfica last summer for 2.5m euros. The striker is contracted to the Lombardy club until 2030 and his agreement does not contain a buy-back clause in favour of his former club.

Benfica do retain a right of first refusal, allowing them to match a future offer for the player. The Portuguese club would also be entitled to 20% of any profit made from a subsequent transfer.

Varela’s estimated market value is currently 5m euros, meaning Monza’s investment has already begun to look promising. The club will be keen to keep hold of a forward who has quickly become important to their efforts to avoid relegation.

Napoli’s interest comes as the two sides prepare to meet in Monza’s ninth league match of the season. The match will provide another opportunity for Varela to face one of the clubs reportedly considering a move for him.

Odds listed by the betting company 1xbet make Napoli favourites, with a price of 1.76 for an away win. Monza are priced at 3.70, while a draw is listed at 3.50.