Arsenal offer telling response to Gabriel Jesus transfer speculation

Arsenal stopped Brazilian media asking technical director Edu about the club's interest in Gabriel Jesus, according to reports in the South American country.

The Brazil international has emerged as a target for the Gunners, who face uncertainty over the future of out-of-contract duo Alexandre Lacazette and Eddie Nketiah. The former Palmeiras man scored four goals on Saturday to help City stay top of the Premier League with a victory over Watford, but has suggested now is not the time to respond to speculation.

Former Arsenal midfielder Edu, who has been in his technical director role since 2019, spoke to his country's media ahead of the London side's weekend victory over Manchester United. However, it has been suggested that any questions about Jesus were off-limits.

According to Brazilian outlet Globo Esporte (via Sport Witness ), Arsenal directly asked ESPN Brasil - with whom Edu spoke on Saturday - not to quiz him on Jesus. They have claimed their actions are particularly revealing when it comes to the Gunners' interest in the 25-year-old.

Gabriel Jesus' four goals against Watford took him up to 11 in all competitions for the season. However, with his minutes limited so far, Globo Esporte suggests his involvement in the final weeks of the campaign could yet have a big role in determining whether he stays or goes.

The frontman has often been used in a wide role by Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola in the league, where he has been averaging a goal or assist every 97 minutes. He may be more concerned by a lack of European action, though, playing just 191 minutes and starting only once, but still scoring three times.

“Not time to think about this,” said Jesus after City's win on Saturday. “You expect me to say