According to numerous reports from the likes of David Ornstein and Fabrizio Romano, Gabriel Jesus is a target for Arsenal.
Jesus would be yet another young, exciting addition to Mikel Arteta’s incredible frontline, but interestingly, Jesus could also be an Arsenal star post-Arteta.
Indeed, the Spaniard’s future has been thrown into doubt a few times over the past 12 months, he’s been on the verge of the sack more than once, his contract is running down, while Manchester City and PSG have both been credited with an interest in the Arsenal manager.
There have also been reports about his potential replacement at Arsenal. Earlier this year, Brazil boss Tite was linked with the Arsenal job, and if Jesus joins the Gunners, a role at the Emirates would be that much more enticing for Tite. After all, he is a big fan of Jesus having worked with him for Brazil, and he’s given him a lot of praise in the past.
What’s been said?
Tite has made no secret of how much he admires Jesus.
“The work done by the player himself and everyone at Palmeiras is worthy of huge praise. His progress is a reflection on him as a person and as an athlete, and to all those who gave him the opportunity to go the Olympics and become a member of the national team,” Tite said to SporTV.
“When I came to play against Palmeiras, I said, ‘It’s impossible that he beats my two defenders, Gil and Felipe, for speed,” Tite would again tell SporTV “What does this guy have!? His turn of pace, his ten-metres, they’re very strong.
“The only thing I put to him: don’t let up on the marking, don’t commit fouls, and don’t be shy of getting the ball and going at your man, because of the force he has. He’s a horse. He’s a very strong player.”
Long-term star
Jesus could well be a star for Arsenal under Mikel Arteta, but he could also be a key player for the Gunners after the Spaniard is long-gone, especially if Tite is his replacement.
Rumours of Tite heading to the Emirates are circulating, and at the age of 25, Jesus may well outlast the current Arsenal boss, whether that’s due to his contract situation, jumping ship or being sacked – such is the state of football management at the moment.
Jesus under Arteta is an exciting prospect, but Jesus under Tite could be a different prospect altogether.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
