Real Madrid ‘decided against Gabriel Jesus transfer due to Brazilian passport’ before Arsenal sealed £45m move
RED tape was the only thing that stopped Real Madrid making a serious bid for Gabriel Jesus, according to reports.
An issue relating to the Brazil striker’s passport was the stumbling block, says Spanish radio station Cadena SER.
Speaking on the Sanhedrin of El Larguero podcast, journalist Javier Herraez said Arsenal’s new recruit was viewed as ideal cover for Karim Benzema by Los Blancos.
He explained: “Benzema is the best, but this is a World Cup year where he is going to play with the French team.
“That is going to be important, and he cannot play every time.
“Gabriel Jesus is who Madrid wanted in this moment because he knew how to be a substitute, and he played and scored goals.
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“Madrid has looked for him and has not found him.
“This footballer is not in Madrid because of the matter of his passport.
“If not, he would be because Ancelotti wanted him, as did the club. But there is no room because of the issue of the papers.”
As it turned out, the Gunners instead signed the 25-year-old star in June from Manchester City on a five-year deal for £45million.
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He had been linked with a move to the Emirates since the end of last season.
The Gunners needed him badly after previous line-leader Alexandre Lacazette left to return to Lyon this summer.
But Eddie Nketiah agreeing a new long-term contract should provide healthy competition up top.