Gabriel Jesus latest: Striker hints at Man City exit date as Arsenal negotiations ready to begin

Arsenal are reportedly ready to step up their efforts to sign Manchester City’s Gabriel Jesus after the striker hinted that a deal could be done next week.

Gunners boss Mikel Arteta wants to strengthen his attacking options this summer, given that former record signing Alexandre Lacazette will soon leave the club on a free transfer.

And City star Jesus has emerged as the Spaniard’s top target, with the Brazilian expected to quit City.

The 25-year-old has consistently struggled to hold down a first-team place at The Etihad. And with strike duo Erling Haaland and Julian Alvarez arriving this summer, he knows his time is up.

Indeed, speaking after Brazil’s 5-1 win over South Korea on Thursday, he revealed a timeline on his future.

“I’m looking to see what’s best for me and above all, for my career,” he told reporters. “From Tuesday, we’ll see what is the best.”

While Arsenal are not the only club in for Jesus, they are thought to be the frontrunners.

North London rivals Tottenham are looking at the City man as a backup for Harry Kane. However, Jesus would almost certainly be guaranteed a starting place with the Gunners.

Arsenal ready to open Jesus talks

And Brazilian journalist Rodrigo Oliveira, via Sport Witness, states that Arsenal are now ready to open negotiations over a deal.

The Gunners will have to pay up to get their man though. Indeed, it’s thought Jesus could cost as much as £42million, given his young age and extensive Premier League experience.

The Brazil forward scored 13 goals this season as City claimed Premier League success.

That figure is better than anything produced at The Emirates this season. Bukayo Saka was Arsenal’s top scorer with just 12 goals, with Emile Smith Rowe and Eddie Nketiah notching 11 and 10 respectively.

If Jesus does move to the red side of north London he’ll join fellow Brazilians Gabriel Magalhaes and Gabriel Martinelli at The Emirates.

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