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Brazil legend Rivaldo feels Gabriel Jesus' recent performances might see the forward stay at Manchester City despite interest from Arsenal.
Jesus has been on Manchester City's books since January 2017 when he joined them from Palmeiras for an initial fee of £27 million. The Brazilian forward has gone on to appear 231 times for City, boasting prolific numbers in front of goal. Jesus has registered 94 goals and 46 assists in his time at the club.
However, there are serious doubts about his future at the Etihad Stadium, with his contract expiring in the summer of 2023.
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Arsenal have been credited with an interest in the Brazil international amidst his uncertain future at Manchester City. According to the reliable David Ornstein of The Athletic, the Gunners have been in touch with Jesus' entourage.
Jesus, though, has been in fine form for Pep Guardiola's side in recent weeks. The 25-year-old has scored six goals and assisted two more in his last five appearances across all competitions.
Rivaldo is of the view that Jesus is now happy with his situation at Manchester City. The World Cup-winner believes his compatriot's recent performances have put an end to speculations over a move to Arsenal. In his Betfair column, Rivaldo said:
"A few days ago, there were rumors about a potential move for Gabriel Jesus to Arsenal, but I think that those speculations are now over after his performances this week. All can change quickly in football and a week, and five goals should be enough to leave all that speculation behind and I believe that now both player and manager are happy with the current situation and eager to try to win important titles at the end of the season."
Jesus has scored and assisted 12 goals each from 36 appearances across all competitions for Manchester City this term. It remains to be seen if that will be enough for him to warrant a new contract at the Etihad Stadium.
Arsenal target Gabriel Jesus tipped to leave Manchester City
While Rivaldo believes Gabriel Jesus could stay at Manchester City, the forward is expected to leave the club at the end of the season. According to the reliable Fabrizio Romano, the Brazilian will put an end to his association with the Citizens in the summer.
It is worth noting that Manchester City are working on a deal to sign Borussia Dortmund's Erling Haaland. They are prepared to trigger the £63 million release clause in the Norway international's contract.
Haaland's arrival could pave the way for Jesus to leave Manchester City ahead of the 2022-23 season. It remains to be seen if the Gunners will take the opportunity to bring him to the Emirates Stadium.
Arsenal are in desperate need of a striker after they let Pierre-Emerick Aubmeyang leave in January. Forwards Alexandre Lacazette and Eddie Nketiah are both out of contracts this summer and will depart the Gunners on a free transfer if a new deal is not negotiated.
