Real Madrid have hit a major snag in their attempts to sign Arsenal transfer target Gabriel Jesus from Manchester City.
The Brazil international is destined to leave the Premier League champions this summer and wants to join a club at which he likely to be a guaranteed starter.
Jesus played second fiddle to Sergio Aguero for the majority of his City career and has operated as a right winger under Pep Guardiola, rather than in his favoured central role.
Despite a lack of Champions League football, Arsenal are in pole position to sign the 25-year-old with City valuing the player at around £50million.
Guardiola is keen to keep Jesus but will not stand in the striker’s way should he wish to leave, especially in lieu of the impending arrival of Erling Haaland.
Jesus is keen on remaining in England and would be keen to reunite with Mikel Arteta, who served as Guardiola’s assistant at City for two-and-a-half years.
Real, however, have registered their interest in Jesus this week and although the striker is keen to hear their proposal, it is unlikely they would be able to facilitate his arrival until January at the earliest.
According to Marca, La Liga rules states that clubs are only permitted to register three non-EU players.
The Champions League holders already have Eder Militao, Vinicius Jr, and Rodrygo on their books and Jesus does not meet the passport requirements. despite having arrived in England five years ago.
Real had been hopeful that Vinicius would qualify for a Spanish passport, but due to Covid he will not be eligible until the new year.
That leaves Arsenal in pole position to sign one of Arteta’s primary transfer targets and they would hope to conclude a deal once Jesus fulfil his international commitments with Brazil.
Speaking after he scored for Brazil against South Korea in a 5-1 win last week, Jesus suggested a decision could be imminent.
‘I’m looking to see what’s best for me and above all, for my career. From Tuesday, we’ll see what is the best.’
MORE : Chelsea ‘very interested’ in beating Arsenal to Manchester City star Gabriel Jesus
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