Arsenal are one of many Premier League clubs set to be active in the summer transfer window, with the team targeting a number of incomings as well as outgoings. Unfortunately, bar Brazilian youngster Marquinhos, the Gunners are yet to make any new additions to their squad.
However, that could change soon. According to the Times, the north London giants are inching closer to completing their first major signing of the summer. To no one's surprise, that player is none other than Manchester City attacker Gabriel Jesus.
It's no secret that Arteta and Co. are keen on a new striker. The departure of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Alexandre Lacazette means that Arsenal are left with only Eddie Nketiah to lead the line. Jeusus, who is entering the final year of his Etihad Stadium contract, has thus been prioritized by the UEFA Europa League side.
Despite missing out on UEFA Champions League football, finishing fifth last season behind bitter rivals Tottenham, the Brazilian ace is reportedly keen on reuniting with Arteta, whom he worked with back when the Spaniard was Guardiola's assistant coach.
And with the Selecao ace returning from international duty, talks are expected to advance. As written by Gary Jacob of the Times, Arsenal are "increasingly confident that they are close to agreeing a deal".
Despite popular belief, the club did make a bid for the South American, as per the report. However, the Gunners offered £30M ($37M) for the attacker and were turned down as Manchester City value him at £50M ($61M).
Arteta's side are expected to increase their offer in a order to bring Jesus to the Emirates Stadium in time for the pre-season. The report, however, does not particularly state whether the north London giants will meet City's valuation or whether the Cityzens will accept a compromise.
Another player high up the club's priority list is Youri Tielemans, the Leicester midfielder who is also entering the final year of his contract. As of now, Arsenal look to be leading the race for the Belgian ace, and with the former Monaco ace having just returned from international duty as well, expect this pursuit to pick up pace.
