Arsenal: Jesus could 'persuade' £51m star to move to Emirates

Arsenal target Lucas Paqueta could be persuaded to join the north London club by Gabriel Jesus, believes journalist Pete O’Rourke.

Both players are international team-mates, and O’Rourke thinks Jesus and the rest of Arsenal’s Brazilian contingent could help lure the Lyon star to the Emirates this summer.

According to UOL Esporte, talks have taken place between Arsenal and Lyon for the potential transfer of Paqueta.

The Brazilian outlet has also stated that the attacking midfielder is likely to cost €60m (around £51m) minimum.

Paqueta was an extremely important player for Lyon last season, making 43 appearances in all competitions. Across those games, the 24-year-old managed to score 11 goals and provide seven assists.

Should Paqueta be the Gunners’ next signing, he would be their fifth new addition following the arrivals of Jesus, Fabio Vieira, Matt Turner and another Brazilian in Marquinhos.

O’Rourke thinks the likes of Jesus and Gabriel Martinelli could convince Paqueta to join Arsenal this transfer window.

Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, the journalist said: “Obviously there is a connection there with other Brazilians at the club, the likes of Jesus, Martinelli and Gabriel at the back as well, so I’m sure they’d maybe help persuade Paqueta to make the move to Arsenal.

“And the chance to go to London, I think, is a big factor for a lot of these South American players.”

All things considered, Paqueta could be quite an exciting addition to Mikel Arteta’s squad. He is a Brazilian attacking midfielder who is a threat to the opposition.

As per FBref, the Brazil international has ranked in the 91st percentile for total shots, the 87th for progressive passes and the 84th for dribbles completed among attacking midfielders and wingers