In a recent report, Sky Sports mentioned that Manchester City have agreed on a transfer fee worth £45m for Gabriel Jesus as Arsenal are closing in on signing him this summer. It is understood that the Mancunian giants had set an asking price worth £50m but have agreed on less to let their prized asset leave the Etihad Stadium.
Jesus’ Campaign For Manchester City So Far
The Brazilian forward has had a decent record at Man City, registering 95 goals in 236 matches, and has even played his part to help them lift several silverware including four Premier League crowns, four EFL Cups and the FA Cup in the last five and a half years.
Jesus made his presence felt on the attacking end last season, as he managed to score 13 goals and produce 12 assists in 41 matches across all fronts. He has performed exceptionally well in the final third after averaging 2.3 shots, 1.4 key passes and 1.6 dribbles per game while maintaining a pass completion rate of 84.8% in the top tier of English football (stats via whoscored).
Does Guardiola Need Reinforcements On The Attacking End After Sanctioning His Exit?
There will certainly be a void left to fill in the position of Jesus and with Sterling also set to exit, it might come as a problem in the long run. The winter world cup will see off the first-team squad fulfilling their duties for their respective countries and that will undoubtedly bring forth exhaustion and fatigue.
Maintaining squad depth is necessary by any means and the Skyblues have fewer options. Erling Haaland will play regularly in the striking position alongside Phil Foden who is also set to start out from the get-go and the right-wing position will most likely be filled in by Julian Alvarez, who will often battle it out with Riyad Mahrez. City have a few reserves but a major setback would tie them down if an injury is said to follow.
Pep Guardiola would be wise to bring in another decent forward to add more depth in the frontline and increase competition in the attacking end of the field.
