Arsenal are reportedly 'preparing the opening bid' for Manchester City forward Gabriel Jesus.
The Brazil international has again been a regular for the Citizens during the 2021-22 campaign, making 39 appearances in all competitions, contributing 13 goals and 12 assists in the process.
Jesus has netted five times in his last three Premier League appearances, while he was also on the scoresheet against Real Madrid in the semi-finals of the Champions League.
Man City have confirmed the arrival of Erling Braut Haaland from Borussia Dortmund ahead of the summer transfer window, though, which could limit the Brazilian's action next term.
There has been a host of speculation surrounding Jesus's future in recent weeks, with Arsenal said to be determined to bring him to the Emirates Stadium this summer.
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According to Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, Arsenal are preparing an opening offer for the 25-year-old, who is valued by the Premier League champions between €50m (£42.5m) and €60m (£50.9m).
Jesus's agent Marcelo Pettinati recently confirmed that the Gunners were interested in signing his client ahead of the 2022-23 campaign.
"We had talks with Arsenal about Gabriel Jesus. We like the project – it's a possibility we're discussing. There are six more clubs interested in Gabriel. He's focused on the final games with Man City; we'll see," Pettinati told Romano.
The South American's current deal at Etihad Stadium only has little over 12 months left to run, meaning that the Citizens are not in a strong position to negotiate a high transfer fee.
Since arriving at Man City from Palmeiras in January 2017, the forward has scored 95 goals and registered 46 assists in 234 appearances for the club in all competitions.
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Jesus has shown his versatility by playing as a left-sided attacker, right-sided attacker and centre-forward during the 2021-22 campaign.
He has also been handed 19 starts in the Premier League, but Haaland's addition this summer will make it difficult for the former Palmeiras youngster to secure regular action next term.
Arsenal allowed Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang to move to Barcelona on a free transfer in January, while Eddie Nketiah and Alexandre Lacazette will both see their contracts expire at the end of the campaign.
As a result, the Gunners are expected to be in the market for a couple of new forwards this summer, and Jesus would not be a risk considering his knowledge of the Premier League, boasting a record of 58 goals and 32 assists in 157 appearances in England's top flight.
Arsenal are currently battling North London rivals Tottenham Hotspur for fourth spot in the table, sitting one point ahead of Antonio Conte's side with two matches left, starting with Monday's trip to Newcastle United before ending at home to Everton on May 22.
Matt Law
