Italian outlet CalcioMercato report Arsenal have compiled a four-man list to replace the injured Gabriel Jesus, who has had a knee operation – with the Gunners eyeing Cody Gakpo, Tammy Abraham, Jonathan David and Dusan Vlahovic.
Jesus, 25, has picked up the knee injury while on international duty with Brazil and forced to go under the knife. The belief is that it might take him three or four months to get back to fitness. Arsenal have Eddie Nketiah in their ranks.
So, when the Gunners return after the World Cup, Nketiah is likely to get his chance. But CM report that the Gunners are keen to bring in a replacement in January. Four players have been added to their shortlist to replace the Brazilian.
Indeed, World Cup hero Gakpo is on the list – but they will face competition. However, CM state that it might suit the Gunners with Arsenal also looking at signing a winger. He can cover both. Roma’s Abraham is also an option for them.
He was linked with Arsenal before his move to Roma in 2021. Another striker on the list that has been previously linked with Arsenal is Vlahovic – who does not regret rejecting Arsenal. The final name is Lille’s David. Spurs are also keen.
Arsenal compile four-man list to replace Jesus, including Gakpo and David
Any of the four would be excellent signings. Abraham starred for Roma last season and while he is struggling this time around, he knows the Premier League. Vlahovic is still young and has done well at Juventus, without sparkling.
Both would cost a serious amount of cash, perhaps north of £60million if reports are to be believed. David has been at the World Cup with Canada, and his form at Lille is impressive – scoring nine goals and three assists in 15 games.
But surely, Gakpo makes the most sense. Arsenal have got to be careful signing a striker – who starts when Jesus returns? So, signing a player that can offer cover out wide and up top makes most sense. Gakpo is that man.
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