Arsenal have reportedly had an opening bid rejected for Botafogo star Igor Jesus as Mikel Arteta looks to bring in a new striker in this month’s transfer window.
As TEAMtalk have consistently reported, Arteta is keen to bring in a new striker to compete with Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus, to help fire Arsenal to trophies.
The Gunners have a shortlist of world-class names but their top targets such as Newcastle’s Alexander Isak and RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko are more likely to be available in the summer.
Arsenal are therefore looking at bringing in a cheaper striker as a stop-gap solution and according to Brazilian outlet RTI Esporte, Botafogo striker Jesus is on their radar.
The 23-year-old joined Botafogo from United Arab Emirates side Shabab Al-Ahli last summer and has made 31 appearances to date for the Brazilian side, scoring eight goals and making five assists in the process.
The report claims that Botafogo have ‘rejected’ an offer from Arsenal for Jesus, although the amount put forward by the north London side is not revealed.
Botafogo aren’t willing to loan Jesus, but would reportedly consider a permanent sale for the right price. He has a €100million (£83m / $103m) release clause in his contract, but €20million (£16.6m/ €20.6m) would reportedly be enough to sign him this month
