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Football London
Football London
Sport
Stephen Killen & Jake Stokes

Mikel Arteta has unlocked Arsenal's own Lionel Messi with clever £45m transfer amid striker plan

A statistic has proved that Arsenal have unlocked their very own Lionel Messi, who comes in the shape of Gabriel Jesus. The 25-year-old striker joined the Gunners from Manchester City in the summer in a move worth around £45million and, having greatly impressed, it's fair to say that the striker has exceeded expectations back under Mikel Arteta's stewardship.

Jesus has featured nine times for the Spaniard's side in the Premier League this season, directly contributing towards eight goals. The Brazil international's breathtaking displays have guided the north Londoners to the makings of a title charge, so it's no surprise to see that he's quickly become considered one of Europe's most dangerous forwards.

And, in doing so, Jesus has outperformed one of the world's all-time greats - Messi. According to Squawka, the Brazilian has completed more take-ons inside the opposition box than anybody else in Europe's top five leagues, Champions League and Europa League combined this season.

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