Lorenzo Insigne 'Honoured' to be Linked with Arsenal, Says Agent

The agent of Napoli starlet Lorenzo Insigne admits it is an "honour" to see the Italy international linked with a move to Arsenal but cannot see the Serie A side parting with the forward this summer.

A growing number of reports have suggested Arsene Wenger will look to prise 23-year-old Insigne away from the Stadio San Paolo following the World Cup, where the forward is expected to have a key role to play in Cesare Prandelli's side.

But when quizzed on the interest emanating from north London, Insigne's agent Antonio Ottaiano was sceptical, although admitted admiration from Arsene Wenger was much appreciated.

"We take in to account the praising reports that Wenger has given about the player," Ottaiano said to Tutto Mercato's website.

"We are honoured that a club like Arsenal could have Lorenzo on their wish list.

"However, from here to take it to the next level, that is a possible transfer, there is a huge mountain in between named 'Napoli'.

"The (Naples) club consider him without a shadow of a doubt as one of their cardinal players for their ambitious project.

"Hence, as of today, I don't see that there can be any further developments unless Arsenal speak to Napoli directly and Napoli change their view on Lorenzo's role here."

Wenger s expected to make another forward option a priority this summer after a season where much of the goal-scoring burden was left on the shoulders of Olivier Giroud.

Insigne scored a brace to help Rafa Benitez's beat Fiorentina en route to lifting the Coppa Italia during the 2013/14 and Napoli are unlikely to listen to offers for the forward who made 36 Serie A appearances for the club last season.