Manchester City almost done in signing Gabriel Jesus - source

 

Gabriel Jesus

Manchester City has expressed hope to complete the signing of Brazilian forward Gabriel Jesus in the next few days, a source has told reporters.

The 19-year-old is regarded as one of the most exciting talents to emerge from Brazil in recent years and has been linked with a host of top clubs including Real Madrid, Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain, while Manchester United were reported to have made a late bid.

But City are confident that they have won the race for the Palmeiras forward, who could cost around €32 million.

Part of the agreement over the deal, Jesus is expected to remain on loan at the Brazilian club until the conclusion of the national championship in December.

Palmeiras coach Cuca told a news conference that Jesus had already spoken to City manager Pep Guardiola with the permission of the club's director of  football, Alexandre Mattos.

Jesus is expected to be part of the Brazil squad for next month's Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, and City hope a deal can be concluded before their opening match against South Africa on Aug. 4.

The forward has been compare to Barcelona star Neymar, who is also part of the Olympic squad, while Brazil legend Ronaldo has said he sees similarities to his own game.

Jesus was named Best Newcomer in the Brazilian championship this year. He has scored 26 goals in 67 games for Palmeiras.

He was due to play for Brazil at the Copa America last month only to miss out because of visa problems.

A potential work permit could be a bareer to City as Jesus is not yet a full international, but he could qualify as a special talent.