Brazilian attacker Gabriel Jesus has been signed by Arsenal on a long-term deal from Premier League winners Manchester City. After passing his medical exam and reaching a personal agreement, the 25-year-old transfers to the Emirates for around £45 million. The No. 9 jersey just vacated by Alexandre Lacazette, who departed for Lyon on a free transfer, will be worn by Jesus. To be in the best possible position to sign Jesus from City this summer, the Gunners worked with his agent Marcello Pettinati for over six months. Following the acquisitions of Fabio Vieira, Matt Turner, and Marquinhos, he becomes the north London club’s fourth summer signing.
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Jesus made it known that he wanted to transfer to the Gunners at the beginning of June and rejoin Mikel Arteta. The latter frequently provided one-on-one coaching and counsel when working as Pep Guardiola’s assistant. Jesus was drawn to Arsenal because of their commitment to pursuing the ball, the fact that they were in dire need of an attacker who fit his mold, and the chance to take on more responsibility. Gabriel has long since established himself as a great athlete. He is a 25-year-old veteran of the Brazil national team who has continually shown that he is an outstanding player.
The addition of Jesus and the extension of Nketiah’s contract give the North Londoners alternatives upfront. They also welcome back Folarin Balogun, who spent the second part of the previous season on loan at Championship club Middlesbrough. When Lacazette’s contract with the team ended in June, Arteta and Arsenal allowed him to depart the club. On Transfer Deadline Day in January of last year, they also permitted Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang to sign with Barcelona on a free transfer. The wonderful thing about Arsenal’s current player acquisition is that there isn’t a lot of media attention surrounding the deals. They put in a lot of effort behind the scenes, maybe spending six months to a year getting ready to sign a player, but they avoid any unnecessary turmoil.