Gustavo Varela’s outstanding start to the season has made the Monza forward a target for Napoli and Arsenal, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport.

The 21-year-old Portuguese striker, who is of Cape Verdean descent, has emerged as one of Serie A’s early-season revelations since joining Monza from Benfica.

Varela 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.

He produced one of his best performances on 19 October, scoring twice and setting up another goal as Monza defeated Cagliari 4-0.

Four days later, Varela found the net again against Torino, although Monza lost 3-2. Napoli scouts were present at that match, journalist Nicolo Schira reported.

Varela moved to the Lombardy club from Benfica last summer for 2.5 million euros and is under contract until 2030. His former club does not have a buy-back clause, but Benfica would retain the right to match any future offer for the player.

Benfica would also be entitled to 20% of any profit Monza makes from a subsequent transfer.

Napoli are known to be monitoring promising young players and have been impressed by Varela’s performances. Arsenal are also following the forward’s progress as his profile continues to grow in Italy.

Monza’s priority will be to keep the striker, who has quickly become an important player in their fight to avoid relegation. His current market value is estimated at 5 million euros.

The timing of Napoli’s interest is notable, with Monza due to face them in their ninth Serie A match of the season.