Alan Smith has claimed that Arsenal’s incoming signing, Gabriel Jesus, ‘wouldn’t get a regular game time’ at Tottenham Hotspur, as he told Sky Sports News.
The Highbury legend added that Arsenal have gone ‘fairly big’ with the incoming transfer of the Manchester City striker – he was pictured with the London club’s technical director, Edu Gaspar recently.
Even though Spurs could offer Jesus Champions League football, something he currently has at the Etihad, he still seemingly opted to head over to the other side of north London.
But with Harry Kane leading the line for Antonio Conte, the England captain is a player that Jesus simply isn’t getting ahead of, even on a very good day for the player.
That was touched upon by former Arsenal striker Smith, who shared his thoughts on Jesus edging closer to signing on the dotted line for the Gunners.
“There were a limited amount of strikers out there that Arsenal can afford,” said Smith. “They have gone fairly big on it, haven’t they?!
“I think this is something they have been discussing with Manchester City for a while. The recruitment department at Arsenal is functioning much better than it did a couple of years ago and they have really got their act together.
“But Jesus fit the profile, age-wise. I think he is someone who has something to prove now. He wants to kick on in his career. He wants to play on a regular basis. He played down the right last season, more often than he played through the middle. In and out of the team, so he wants to be the first choice.
“It’s that desire and hunger that Arteta wants. People who do want to prove themselves and aren’t coasting. Jesus can turn into a very good central striker now that he joined Arsenal.
“I think that will be the attraction, the fact that other clubs were after him and he might not have played on a regular basis, of course, with Spurs having Harry Kane. He wouldn’t have got a regular game there, but at Arsenal, he will. I think that’s what would appeal to him.”
BRAZIL TAKEOVER IN LONDON?
Gabriel Jesus, Richarlison and Raphinha… all three could be, or should be, on the move this summer and that to teams in London.
It also seems as though all three will be headed towards three different London clubs, with Arsenal, Tottenham and Chelsea all interested parties.
Whilst it’s a matter of time before Jesus signs for Arsenal, and the same for Richarlison at Tottenham, it’s up in the air what happens with Leeds winger, Raphinha.
Chelsea might have won the race for the left-footed trickster, with suggestions that Thomas Tuchel’s side are close to agreeing a £55 million deal for the player.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
