Arsenal are now "optimistic" of signing "world-class" £60m-rated star - journalist

Arsenal are now “optimistic” of signing Manchester City striker Gabriel Jesus in the summer transfer window, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

The Brazil international has emerged as one of a number of striker targets for Mikel Arteta this summer as the Gunners boss looks to strengthen his centre-forward options.

While Eddie Nketiah looks set to stay and pen a new contract at the Emirates after initially seeming like he would be leaving, Alexandre Lacazette is on his way to Lyon.

Of course, with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s exit to Barcelona in January, the north Londoners are very light on options, and it appears Jesus is the man they are going for.

Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, O’Rourke indicated that Manchester City would still be keen to sign him to a new deal at the Etihad, but that Arsenal are “optimistic” of bringing him to the club.

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He said: “Manchester City are still quite keen to try and secure his future as well, and tie him down to a new contract.

“But Arsenal, they are optimistic that maybe they can get this deal over the line for Jesus despite missing out on the Champions League.”

The £60m-rated star may not be the biggest star name at City given the likes of Kevin de Bruyne are at the club, but his work for Pep Guardiola’s side certainly doesn’t go unnoticed.

Former City and Leicester striker Paul Dickov insisted that Jesus is someone who steps up when needed, saying: “Centre-forwards playing wide know where they want the ball, they know where they want to be to score it.

“He’s a special player. Many people question him, but he really is a world-class player. He produces. Every time he is called upon, he delivers.”

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