116-goal striker "would definitely consider" Arsenal move because of Mikel Arteta - journalist

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta’s position in the Emirates Stadium dugout could be a ‘big factor’ in Manchester City striker Gabriel Jesus heading to north London, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

The Gunners may have missed out on Champions League qualification after finishing fifth in the Premier League, but that has not stopped Arteta pushing ahead with his transfer plans.

It emerged last month, via The Athletic, that Arsenal are exploring the possibility of luring Jesus to the Emirates Stadium.

The report suggests discussions between the Gunners’ technical director Edu and the frontman’s representatives are believed to have been taking place for a prolonged period and the four-time Premier League champion is open to the switch.

Arsenal are understood to be increasingly confident of tempting him away from Manchester City during the upcoming transfer window, which opens next month.

The north Londoners’ hopes of striking a deal may have been boosted by the fact Jesus only has 13 months remaining on his £91,000-per-week contract at the Etihad Stadium.

Additionally, after rumours of a move to Arsenal emerged, the Brazilian refused to commit his future to Manchester City beyond the summer.

Ben White is DROSS! £250m WASTED at Arsenal! Hear more on The Football Terrace…

O’Rourke believes working with Arteta for the second time in his career would be attractive to Jesus.

Arteta was previously Pep Guardiola’s assistant manager at Manchester City and, thanks to that, the journalist feels a move could be on the cards.

O’Rourke told GIVEMESPORT: “I think the opportunity to work under Mikel Arteta again would be a big factor in any decision from Jesus and there’s quite a few Brazilian players at Arsenal as well, which would maybe