Gustavo Varela has emerged as one of Serie A’s early-season breakthroughs, with Napoli and Arsenal monitoring the Monza forward after a prolific start to the campaign.
The 21-year-old, a Portuguese international of Cape Verdean descent, has scored seven goals and provided one assist in seven league appearances. His record across all competitions stands at nine goals in eight matches after he scored twice in the Coppa Italia against Avellino.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Varela’s performances have drawn particular attention from Napoli, who continue to track emerging talent in the Italian top flight. Arsenal are also following the striker’s progress.
Varela was central to Monza’s 4-0 victory over Cagliari on 19 October, scoring twice and setting up another goal. Four days later, he found the net again against Torino, although Monza were beaten 3-2.
Napoli scouts were present at that match, according to journalist Nicolo Schira.
Monza signed Varela from Benfica last summer for 2.5 million euros, and his early impact has already made the transfer appear a promising investment for the Lombardy club. He is under contract until 2030 and there is no buy-back clause allowing Benfica to re-sign him.
However, the Portuguese club retain the right to match any future offer for the player. Benfica would also be entitled to 20% of any profit Monza make from a subsequent sale.
For Monza, keeping Varela will be a priority as they seek to preserve the services of a forward who has quickly become important in their battle against relegation. His current market value is estimated at 5 million euros.
The next opportunity for Napoli and Arsenal to assess him will come when AC Monza host Napoli in their ninth Serie A match of the season.
Varela joined Monza after leaving Benfica and has made an immediate impact in his first season with the club. His goals against Cagliari and Torino came within a period in which his form elevated him from a promising signing to one of the league’s most closely watched young attackers.
Napoli’s interest comes as the club considers further additions with potential, while Arsenal are also keeping track of the player’s development. Monza’s position is strengthened by Varela’s long-term contract, although Benfica’s matching rights and share of any future profit remain part of the agreement.
