Arsenal look set to miss out on the signing of QPR goalkeeper Julio Cesar, with the Brazilian close to joining Italian side Napoli on a season long loan according to the Daily Star. 

The 33-year-old keeper has been linked with a move to the Emirates since the close of the season, with QPR telling the player he could leave following the club's relegation from the Premier League.

Arsenal looked set to sign the experienced goalkeeper for just £1.5million, although now it appears their dithering could see them miss out on the keeper who is happy to return to Italy.

It is understood Napoli have reached an agreement with QPR for the player, although no personal terms have yet been agreed, giving Arsene Wenger slight hope of resurrecting a deal.

Where Wenger feels confident is the fact the club has the ability to match the goalkeeper's wage demands of £2.4m in full, whereas Napoli can only offer £1.8m.

Cesar himself revealed he would be happy to return to Italy this summer while on duty with Brazil at the Confederations Cup last month, saying: "It would be good to return to Italian football, knowing the league and the language."

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