Arsenal have reportedly made the decision to end their pursuit of Napoli striker Victor Osimhen in favour of Manchester City's Gabriel Jesus.
A striker features high on Mikel Arteta ’s transfer shopping list this summer with the Gunners in dire need of attacking reinforcements heading into next season. Alexandre Lacazette is set for a return to France with a switch back to Lyon on the cards whilst Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang left for Barcelona in January.
Whilst Eddie Nketiah is reportedly set to pen a new deal at the Emirates Stadium, he would represent the Gunners’ only senior striking option. As a result, the north Londoners have been linked with a lengthy list of attacking recruits - some expected to be more expensive than others.
One of those who could potentially cost a considerable amount this summer is Napoli’s Victor Osimhen. The Nigerian has already been linked with a switch to Arsenal after a stand-out season with the Serie A club - 18 goals to his name throughout the campaign having missed large swaths through injury.
Whilst there is no doubt that the 23-year-old would be an excellent addition to the side, it appears that the Gunners are no longer set to pursue his signature this summer. As per Corriere del Mezzogiorno, Arsenal have been put off by Napoli’s demands of up to €120m (£102m).
Having missed out on Champions League football to north London rivals Tottenham Hotspur, that fee is far too high for Arsenal to play, particularly when they also have other positions such as central midfield to consider in the upcoming market.
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It is further detailed that Man City forward Gabriel Jesus has moved to the top of their shortlist, with a move for the Brazilian thought to be a lot more realistic. He currently has just a year remaining on his contract at the Etihad Stadium and is likely to fall down the pecking order ahead of next season with the arrival of Borussia Dortmund’s Erling Haaland - as well as young Argentine forward Julian Alvarez.
Jesus’ agent Marcelo Pettinati has suggested that a decision will be made on the striker’s future once he has rounded off his international commitments with Brazil.
He said: “At the moment we’re understanding all of the projects, so right now isn’t the time to say anything. Things will advance after his time with the national team.”
Jesus, 25, made 41 appearances in all competitions for Man City last term and scored 13 goals and provided 12 assists as the Sky Blues claimed the Premier League title once more under the tutelage of Pep Guardiola.
However, he was only used in fits and starts, leading to suggestions that the former Santos star could look for a move elsewhere ahead of next season.
