Pundit makes ‘massive’ Arsenal claim after near-£50m deal agreed
Arsenal may struggle to beat Champions League sides to signings this summer despite clinching the near-£50million signing of Gabriel Jesus.
That’s according to former Leeds United stopper Paddy Kenny, speaking exclusively to Football Insider about the Gunners’ transfer plans amid their struggles to land second forward target Raphinha.
Fabrizio Romano claimed on 29 June that Chelsea and Leeds have agreed a fee between £60million and £65million for the 25-year-old winger.
This came after The Athletic reported on 22 June that Leeds had rejected an opening offer from Arsenal that falls well below the club’s valuation.
The Gunners will be playing Europa League football in the 2022-23 season after losing out on fourth place to Tottenham last term.
Kenny claims Arsenal will continue to lose out on signings to Champions League clubs.
“It’s [not getting into the Champions League] has made a massive difference,” Kenny told Football Insider correspondent Ben Wild.
“It makes people’s minds up. If Tottenham and Arsenal are interested in the same player, it will be difficult for Arsenal to get them.
“It’s because of them playing in the Champions League. For them to not be in the Champions League and to make a signing like Jesus, it’s a great signing.
“I’m sure they will be putting pressure on the top four this season and I don’t think they will be far away either.”
Arsenal announced the signing of Gabriel Jesus from Man City on Monday (4 July).
He joins Fabio Vieira and Marquinhos as senior arrivals at The Emirates this summer.
In other news, Allan Saint-Maximin tipped by pundit to reject Gunners move in favour of Newcastle United stay.