Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta responds to Gabriel Jesus transfer rumour after striker’s agent admits he has held ‘talks’ with the Gunners

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has responded to rumours that the club are interested in Manchester City’s Gabriel Jesus after the striker’s agent admitted that he ‘likes’ the club’s project. 

The Spaniard was speaking ahead of a crucial north London derby on Thursday, which could see Arsenal all but secure their place in the top four and secure Champions League qualification.

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Arteta was asked about links with Jesus after the Brazilian’s agent, Marcelo Pettinati, fuelled speculation on Wednesday by admitting that talks were held between the club and the player.

“We had talks with Arsenal about Gabriel Jesus, we like the project – it’s a possibility we’re discussing,” said Pettinati, according to Fabrizio Romano.

“There are six more clubs interested in Gabriel – he’s focused on final games with Man City, we’ll see.”

Man City’s signing of Erling Haaland means that Pep Guardiola could look to sell Jesus, who has scored eight league goals this season, in the summer.

The Gunners are now heavy favourites to sign the Brazil international – but Arteta refused to comment on the speculation.

“I don’t talk about any players that are not with us,” said the Arsenal boss.

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Arteta worked with Jesus during his time at Manchester City as a coach alongside Guardiola.

And the north Londoners have also been linked with a move for another of City’s forwards, Raheem Sterling.

Their ability to sign one or both of the duo, though, may come down to whether they can beat rivals Tottenham to Champions League qualification.

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