Rio Ferdinand has suggested Arsenal should go after Manchester City forward Gabriel Jesus in the summer.
The Brazilian recently returned from injury after appearing in both wins over Everton and Peterborough over the past week, with the latter providing his first start since the victory over Swindon in the FA Cup. He had been out of action since returning from international duty with Brazil in January.
Despite being the only senior striker in Pep Guardiola’s squad this season, Jesus is far from assured of a place in City’s side. The Blues boss has often preferred other options, such as Phil Foden and Jack Grealish, as his number nine.
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Jesus has made 20 Premier League appearances so far this season, 15 of which have come from the start, but he has scored just twice in the league, with his last goal coming in September. He sits top when it comes to assists for the club though with seven.
His position though could be placed under further threat in the summer though. City look likely to target a new striker, having missed out on a deal for Harry Kane last year.
The 24-year-old’s contract expires next year, and reports have linked him with a move away from the Etihad. Inter Milan have been touted as a possible destination, with the Italian champions said to have held a long-term interest in Jesus.
Former defender Ferdinand though suggested another possible destination, touting a potential reunion with former City assistant Mikel Arteta in north London.
“If I was Arsenal, I would go and buy Gabriel Jesus,” Ferdinand told his YouTube channel.
Despite favouring others in the number nine role, Guardiola still sees Jesus as an option in the position. In fact, the City boss rates the Brazilian highly in all of the forward positions.
“He’s a centre forward, he can play there, but when he is played wide he is more comfortable,” Guardiola said last month. “We encourage him in central positions to be more open, to see the actions.”
“He can play in the three positions up front, and when we need players who can help a lot, he’s the best in the world.”
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