AHEAD OF THE GAME

IT’S WINDOW PAIN FOR ARTETA AS ARSENAL DRAG THEIR HEELS

MIKEL ARTETA is growing frustrated by Arsenal’s indecision in the transfer market.

The north London club, who were pipped to a place in the top four by bitter rivals Tottenham, are insisting that all major transactions are approved by the American ownership, which Arteta fears could cost them the chance to sign top transfer target Gabriel Jesus from Manchester City. The Brazil striker was made available for transfer almost two months ago and Arsenal were quick to register their interest, but have yet to commit to meeting City’s £50million asking price or open talks over personal terms with the 25-year-old.

With Arteta’s bosses seemingly vacillating, Chelsea, Tottenham and Real Madrid have also joined the race to sign Jesus, leading to concerns that Arsenal could miss out. The Gunners are in desperate need after Alexandre Lacazette’s departure left them with Eddie Nketiah as the club’s only recognised striker.