Report: Arsenal make enquiry for world star, told only record bid will seal deal

By Alex Taylor

Napoli have refused to move on their valuation of Argentine striker Gonzalo Higuain after telling potential suitors they would need to match the forwards £79million buy-out clause in order to secure his services, according to a report.

Gazzetta World claim that Napoli told Juventus they would need to break the Italian transfer record to land the forward, in a move that could discourage Arsenal from entering the bidding war for the player.

The prolific striker has scored 227 career goals, netting an incredible 38 times for Napoli in just 42 games last season, including 36 in 35 Serie A matches.

It was reported in Italy that Juventus will open talks with Napoli over a deal to sign Higuain and could even be willing to activate his daunting release clause.

Reports in Italy cited by Goal claimed that Arsene Wenger hopes to agree a deal of £41million plus Giroud for the services of the 28-year-old.

The former Real Madrid striker has made it clear that he does not want to extend his Napoli contract, which expires in two years’ time.

Arsenal are in the market for a new striker with doubts surrounding Giroud’s ability to be the prolific goal-scorer that could win them the Premier League.

The club had been close to signing Leicester's Jamie Vardy earlier in the window but the deal fell through when the Englishman chose to sign a new contract with league champions instead.

They have also been linked with Carlos Bacca, Karim Benzema and Alexandre Lacazette but any deal with a high-profile forward is yet to materialise.

In other Arsenal news, club legend David Seaman says there are a whole host of signings that need to be made by Arsene Wenger if they are to be ready for the new season.