Gabriel Jesus’ representatives have begun talks with Arsenal about a possible summer move. The Brazilian striker is entering the final year of his contract and wants a more important role in the team.
The Gunners are hoping to sign the Brazil international from Manchester City in order to bolster their attack ahead of the 2022-23 season.
Jesus is looking for a more important role that will give him more regular game time, as the 25-year-old has started 17 of the 24 matches he has played in the English Premier League this season.
Paulo Pitombeira, Jesus’ agent, met with Arsenal technical director Edu to discuss a prospective move.
The conversations are still in their early stages, and no salary estimates have been mentioned thus yet.
However, it has already been agreed that the attacker’s agent will act as a go-between in negotiations with City.
Jesus’ contract at the Etihad Stadium expires in 2023, and he wants more regular playing time, which he believes he can obtain at Arsenal, but he will not try to force City to let him go.
Pep Guardiola’s pursuit of Borussia Dortmund star Erling Haaland may also play a role in Jesus’ willingness to make a summer move, as the addition of another top striker might push Jesus lower down the pecking order.
Meanwhile, Arsenal are seeking for a forward to replace Alexandre Lacazette, who is expected to leave on a free transfer in the summer.
Why Jesus fits in Arsenal
Jesus could be the right purchase. He fits Arteta’s mould of nurturing a youthful club, and a Brazilian link-up with Gabriel Martinelli has fans excited. However, since Arteta’s time at Arsenal, the club’s orientation has shifted, and Gunners fans should be upbeat.
Arteta has been given time, and Arsenal are looking better than they have since Wenger’s departure. And if they are able to secure Champions League football for next season, they can only improve.
Arsenal have gone from having old players in specific areas to having one of the Premier League’s youngest squads, and their youth is ushering in a new era. But that’s a credit to Arteta’s foresight, and Jesus may be the next piece of the puzzle.
Jesus has struggled for consistent game time at City, but he continues to establish his quality whenever Pep Guardiola uses him. And the Brazilian has already worked with Arteta while the Spaniard was City’s assistant coach.
In the past, Arsenal may have backed down from a deal in order to chase a cheaper, short-term solution, but this time they appear determined to do all in their power to sign Jesus. If they are successful, it will be a strong sign of where Arsenal is heading under Arteta.
