Arsenal have been given a free run at securing the signature of Manchester City striker Gabriel Jesus after Tottenham pulled out of the race, according to the Evening Standard.

The newspaper claims that the Brazilian international is no longer a target for Spurs, as they focus on efforts to sign Everton’s Richarlison and Leeds’ Raphinha instead.

Negotiations to sign Jesus have taken a number of twists and turns but it does appear as if the Gunners are now very close to agreeing a deal for the 25-year-old.

It had been reported that City were holding for a fee close to £60m for Jesus, despite his contract expiring next year, but it is now believed that a move could be finalised if Arsenal stump up around £45m.

Chelsea have also been credited with an interest in Jesus but they have not made a serious attempt to sign the forward, so the player is looking set to secure his switch to the Emirates.