Arsenal’s Gabriel Jesus: Why Milan are right to make initial contact | OneFootball

Arsenal’s Gabriel Jesus seems increasingly inclined towards departing the Gunners in the summer, with Serie A side Milan circling the striker.

Calciomercato IT report about the Brazilian’s situation, making the Rossoneri’s liking for the striker clear. They go a step further and also reveal initial contact between Milan and Jesus’ entourage over a summer deal.

It is believed Max Allegri’s were interested in the Brazil international even in January. At that point, Arsenal wanted between €30 million and €35 million to let him depart permanently. This was too much for Milan at that stage of the season but a discount in the summer is very much possible.

It is believed the London side would be happy with around €20 million and bonuses, which is a positive for Allegri’s side.

This move isn’t a surprise because Jesus and Allegri himself now share the same agent. It will also only help in a permanent deal and in seeking possible discounts, especially if the Italian is keen on a deal.

Even otherwise, Jesus would be quite a fit for Milan. While he recently dealt with serious knee problems, those seem to be past him and even after his return, Jesus has two Premier League. He also found a brace at the San Siro against Inter in the Champions League, showing how he can still hold the line well.

Milan’s attack, generally, has struggled this season. Niclas Fullkrug is expected to leave in the summer and return to West Ham. Speculation around Rafael Leao has also grown, with Santiago Gimenez’s situation also in doubt.

This will leave Milan hunting for a proven striker who will be desperate to make a mark once again. Granted, Jesus is 29 and not the youngest but his gritty profile is something Allegri has always wanted in his career. The Brazilian loves covering distance, running into channels, while also playing a role in holding up like a proper number nine. 

His pro-activity makes him a decent fit for Allegri, who has seen Gimenez and Fullkrug never really impress. The ex-Juve manager has generally showed a willingness to use experienced players and even if that is slightly in clash with Milan’s own project, Jesus would have no problems in settling in.