Arsenal hold ‘fresh talks’ today with top target as transfer expert plays down €100m alternative
Manchester City forward Gabriel Jesus remains Mikel Arteta’s top target as Arsenal look to bring in an attacker, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.
The Brazilian is set to leave the Etihad Stadium this summer with a number of clubs reportedly interested in his services.
Jesus has been a rotation option for most of the season under Pep Guardiola as he started 21 of City’s 38 Premier League matches.
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His playing time could reduce again next season if he stays at City with the Premier League champions strengthening their ranks by signing Erling Haaland from Borussia Dortmund.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang left in the winter for Barcelona and, with Alexandre Lacazette departing on a free at the end of this month, Arsenal are desperate to strengthen their attacking options.
A recent report from Italian website Calciomercato insisted that although Arsenal are in the lead in the race to sign Jesus, Juventus will hold talks with Jesus’ agent this week over a potential transfer to the Italian giants.
And now Romano has told Caught Offside that Jesus remains the Gunners’ “main target ” this summer as they look to get business done early with “fresh talks planned today”.
Romano said: “Gabriel Jesus is still the main target of Arsenal as of today. In the next few hours there will be new contacts to understand if they can reach an agreement or move to other targets.
“There is not only Arsenal on Gabriel, who will leave Man City at 100%. He’s a top player who wants to start matches, and it’s not too surprising to see him take his time over a decision on his future.
“In terms of alternatives, I’m aware there has been speculation about Arsenal being one of the clubs chasing a deal for Christopher Nkunku. I’ve always been adamant that RB Leipzig are determined not to sell, so it’s not an easy one for Arsenal.
“So far Leipzig have not received any offers from the Gunners for Christopher Nkunku, but I can reveal that Chelsea have been following him for some time. Still, the price is over €100m because Leipzig want to try to keep him at all costs, and could even offer him a new contract this summer.
“Of course, Chelsea have problems up front with Romelu Lukaku, so it’s not surprising Nkunku could be seen as a replacement, but for now there’s not much to report.”
