Sky Sports journalist Gianluca Di Marzio has provided an update on Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur’s battle to sign Manchester City forward Gabriel Jesus.
The Lowdown: Jesus transfer rumours
According to Melissa Reddy of Sky Sports, the Gunners are ‘cautiously optimistic’ as they lead the race for the Brazil international’s signature, having put in nearly six months of work with Jesus’ representative Marcello Pettinati to ensure that they were in pole position to recruit him from the Premier League champions this summer.
The 25-year-old voiced his desire to join Arsenal at the start of June, following the arrivals of Erling Haaland from Borussia Dortmund and Julian Alvarez from River Plate.
However, a number of other clubs have been linked with a move for the striker, with the Gunners' north London rivals Tottenham also reportedly keen on signing him this summer.
The Latest: Di Marzio’s claim on Jesus
Di Marzio has now shared the latest news on the Jesus transfer saga.
Taking to Twitter, he claimed: ".@Arsenal are ready to do everything to close Gabriel #Jesus deal from @ManCity. Meanwhile, @SpursOfficial are also interested and will give it a try. #AFC #THFC"
In the corresponding article, it is reported that Spurs are now moving 'under the radar' to intervene in Arsenal’s negotiations with City. The journalist claimed that the deal would be difficult for Tottenham to execute, but Fabio Paratici is nonetheless trying to get it done.
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The Verdict: He'd be a fantastic signing
When compared with positional peers across Europe's top five leagues over the past year, Jesus ranks in the 96th percentile for non-penalty expected goals and also for touches in the attacking penalty area (via FBRef).
With Conte’s attacking football often played down the wings, this style of play could suit the Brazilian, who can also be utilised out wide when needed.
With Spurs' sole striker Harry Kane in need of a backup option, Jesus could come in and play anywhere across Conte's front line. The 25-year-old also brings the reliability of scoring 95 goals in 236 appearances for Pep Guardiola's side, making him a proven operator at a high level.
Therefore, this would be a great signing for Tottenham for multiple reasons.
In other news: Tottenham push for this transfer target ‘in the last few days’