Arsenal fear Lucas Torreira may have sparked a scramble for his signature with Napoli joining AC Milan in monitoring the midfielder’s situation in north London.

The 23-year-old admitted last week he struggling to adjust to life in England having joined the Gunners last summer from Sampdoria for £27million and is keen on a return to Italy.

Head coach Unai Emery views Torreira as an important part of his squad and the club are in a strong position to repel any offers given he is under contract at Emirates Stadium until 2023.

But Arsenal’s modest £40m budget can only be supplemented by player sales and a significant offer would test their resolve, especially if Torreira attempted to force through a move.

There is no indication at this stage he will do so but Milan are the current front-runners if interested clubs receive any encouragement a deal is possible.

Napoli tried to sign Torreira before the Gunners snapped him up and although he was then viewed as a replacement for Jorginho, who left to join Chelsea, it is believed they are continuing to track him now.