Reliable source: Guardiola could now lose his 'unsung hero', he's 'open' to leaving Man City

The Athletic’s David Ornstein, a reliable source, has revealed that Manchester City striker Gabriel Jesus is a target for Arsenal ahead of the upcoming summer transfer window. 

Signed for £27million from Palmeiras in 2016 (Sky Sports), the Brazilian has scored 93 times in 230 outings for the Citizens.

Despite the impressive return the Brazilian has struggled to hold down a regular place in Pep Guardiola’s first team and as such has only started on 22 occasions in 35 outings across all competitions this season.

Jesus put on a Man of the Match display at Eastlands on Saturday afternoon with a remarkable four-goals and one assist in a 5-1 demolition of Watford – but his long term future at the Etihad is in question…

Taking to Twitter on Friday, journalist Ornstein of The Athletic stated: “Arsenal exploring possibility of signing Gabriel Jesus from Man City. Clubs yet to speak but talks between Edu + reps for months. 25yo open to idea, #AFC current favourites. Calvert-Lewin among options @TheAthleticUK #MCFC #EFC 1st reported @jorgenicola.”

Out of contract in 2023 (Transfermarkt), Arsenal are billed as the ‘current favourites’ to sign the man hailed as an ‘unsung hero’ by Guardiola back in March 2021 following a brace against Wolves.

This shouldn’t even be under consideration for City as Jesus’ astonishing form, when given the opportunity by Guardiola, has backed just how useful he can be for the Sky Blues – as evident by his ridiculous performance yesterday.

So far this term the versatile forward has scored 11 times and provided 12 assists, importantly proving to possess the Midas touch when it comes to big game showdowns with Liverpool.

Even with the potential arrival of Haaland, Jesus has proven to be a top-level operator