Tottenham have reportedly joined Arsenal in the race to sign Gabriel Jesus as Antonio Conte wants to sign a versatile attacker ahead of next season.
According to football.london, Gabriel Jesus features on the list of potential striker targets for Tottenham in the summer. The Manchester City forward will likely depart from the Etihad, and Arsenal have been ahead of the queue for the Brazilian, but Spurs could mount a challenge for his signature.
Tottenham are reportedly staring at an elaborate summer as Antonio Conte wants to plan out the transfer window as per his specifications. The Italian tactician does not want Spurs to make the same mistakes as before, as he wishes to have a big enough squad to go through multiple competitions.
Among those needed in the next window, Conte is keen on signing a new striker. The dilemma is over whether this new forward will be a focal point or a versatile attacker with the ability to play from wide areas. Tottenham are likely to afford only one of those styles, leaving Conte to make a tricky decision.
Tottenham had eyes on Victor Osimhen, who comes across as a player who fits in the first category. Spurs are also linked with Rennes’ Martin Terrier, who operates out wide. Tottenham have a leading forward in Harry Kane, but Conte does not want to put the burden of an entire season on the England captain.
Conte thus wants Tottenham to approach Manchester City for Gabriel Jesus. The Brazilian forward is available in the summer transfer window and may carry a reasonable price tag within Tottenham’s range.
Manchester City’s asking price is still unclear, owing to many contradicting reports from multiple outlets. The big problem for Spurs is Arsenal’s interest in the Manchester City forward. The Gunners have firmly established themselves as the front-runners in his pursuit.
Arsenal stepped up their interest as soon as Manchester City started chasing Erling Haaland. Director Edu Gaspar held talks with his agent and subsequently with Manchester City over finalising the deal. Jesus is also reportedly open to joining Arsenal, which may have been an update before Tottenham’s interest emerged.
The Gunners are yet to agree to a fee with Mancheste3r City, but they have personal terms sorted on a five-year deal agreed with Jesus. Tottenham’s interest could spark a bidding war with Arsenal, which is precisely what Manchester City might want.
Tottenham could look to push on with an approach when they confirm their qualification for next season’s UEFA Champions League, which could be a huge factor while chasing their preferred targets. The lure of playing in Europe’s top tier competition could prove pivotal in the chase for Jesus, although as things stand, Arsenal are the current favourites.