South American star to have wages doubled by Man City as Brazilian transfer ruled out

Gabriel Jesus is in line to receive a new contract with Manchester City instead of making a loan move back to his native Brazil, according to reports.

Jesus has done his best to fight for his place since joining Man City from Palmeiras in 2017. Originally serving as backup to Sergio Aguero, he has not been a guaranteed starter even after the Argentine’s exit in the summer.

This season, the 24-year-old has built up 15 starts in the Premier League. However, he has often played on the right wing instead of up front. It means his goal tally has been down to two for the league, and four in other competitions.

Consequently, Jesus has lost his place in the Brazil squad. That has prompted speculation that he could return to Palmeiras on loan to improve his chances before the World Cup later this year.

But journalist Jorge Nicola has provided an update that there is a “zero” percent chance of Jesus making the move back to Palmeiras.

Instead, he is more likely to sign a contract renewal with Man City. His current terms are due to expire in 2023.

Therefore, time is of the essence for City to tie him down to a longer deal. If not, they would risk losing him for a cut-price fee.

But Nicola believes he is fully part of the plans at the Etihad Stadium. In fact, City are willing to double his wages in order for him to stay.

Jesus has scored 88 goals from 223 appearances across his City career. Of those, 52 have come in the Premier League – and City could ensure there will be more to come.

They have already been working through a number of contract extensions this season. Ederson, Ruben Dias, John Stones and Joao Cancelo have all extended their commitments to the club.

Man City working on Gabriel Jesus renewal in tandem with another

Reports have recently indicated that defensive midfielder Rodri is also set to be rewarded with updated terms.

The Spaniard is under contract at the Etihad Stadium until 2024. At the age of 25, City see him as a crucial part of their future. He has been a standout midfielder in the Premier League, so they want him to remain theirs.

However, the Daily Telegraph hint that stronger competition could be coming for his place.

Fellow holding player Fernandinho is out of contract at the end of the season. With that in mind, City are scouring the market for potential replacements.

One option could be Aurelien Tchouameni of Monaco, the report claims. But his asking price will be high and they do not want to eat into their budget for striker target Erling Haaland.

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The Borussia Dortmund centre-forward is available for the value of his release clause in the summer. City are among the favourites to activate it (which would further reduce the chances of Gabriel Jesus becoming a number nine again).

Thus, if that would reduce their chances of spending big on Tchouameni too, they would have to weigh up midfield alternatives.

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