Gabriel Jesus, the Manchester City forward, is changing sides and joining Arsenal, Fabrizio Romano reports. Personal terms have been agreed on with his two partners, and agent Marcelo Pettinati. Romano reported that the 25-year-old has signed a deal with the London club until 2027 with the Premier League side agreeing to a £45 million fee. 

Jesus’ arrival at Arsenal could see the Brazilian help fire up the attacking line, which already has a lot of talent and promise with the likes of Emile Smith Rowe and Eddie Nketiah. Here are four reasons why the signing has been a good decision for Mikel Arteta’s side. 

Great value for money 

Arsenal have a record of signing players who have somewhat fallen out of favour or been left aside by their former clubs. This can be seen in them bringing on Martin Odegaard and Alexis Sanchez. Earlier, this included transfers like Dennis Bergkamp and Thierry Henry. 

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The deal for Jesus is a continuation of the niche the club carved for itself. It’s worked well in the past too, and Jesus at 25 has some of his best years ahead of him. While he isn’t a project player, the club also has some resale value, even if they decide to part ways with the Brazilian once he turns 30. 

Play style and Premier League experience

Jesus has amassed massive PL experience. This helps someone like him to hold together the team, as the season often gets gruelling due to scheduling. On top of that, the Brazilian’s play has evolved to embody a more physical aspect of the game seen in the English league. 

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He shields the ball well and engages in duels as well, which makes him well-suited to bolster Arsenal’s offense. 

Quality and a known player 

Jesus is quick on his feet, can fall back when needed, and has the pace to run and catch up quickly if Arsenal decide to go on the counter. 

On top of that, Arteta already knows and has worked with Jesus, when the former assisted Pep Guardiola, City’s coach. 

Versatility in position 

Guardiola is a master when it comes to positional play, and due to the variety of options at City, Jesus has often had to take on versatile roles, some in wide areas, especially to the right. 

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His crosses and runs behind the defense cause trouble to opponents, and Jesus’ signing gives Arteta the option to maintain positional fluidity and a smaller squad where Martinelli and Jesus can go central while starting to play from either flank.