Plan B: Manchester City might bank on their ‘only recognised striker’ this season

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - MAY 23: Gabriel Jesus of Manchester City celebrates with the Premier League Trophy as Manchester City are presented with the Trophy as they win the league following the Premier League match between Manchester City and Everton at Etihad Stadium on May 23, 2021 in Manchester, England. A limited number of fans will be allowed into Premier League stadiums as Coronavirus restrictions begin to ease in the UK. (Photo by Dave Thompson - Pool/Getty Images)
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - MAY 23: Gabriel Jesus of Manchester City celebrates with the Premier League Trophy as Manchester City are presented with the Trophy as they win the league following the Premier League match between Manchester City and Everton at Etihad Stadium on May 23, 2021 in Manchester, England. A limited number of fans will be allowed into Premier League stadiums as Coronavirus restrictions begin to ease in the UK. (Photo by Dave Thompson - Pool/Getty Images) /
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This Manchester City side has been hellbent on finding a replacement for Sergio Aguero. The English Champions have had plenty of options shortlisted for their vacant no.9 role as A-listers like Robert Lewandowski, Erling Haaland and Harry Kane were all linked with a move to the Etihad this summer.

However, it seems that the Sky Blues have finally decided to go all guns blazing for Harry Kane as they believe that the Englishman has all the qualities to replace their Argentine legend. So far, their ‘efforts’ to land the Spurs talisman have not been a success and hence there is a slight possibility that the club might just have to give up on their “biggest target”.

Should City miss out on Kane, there are chances that the club will have to rely on their “only recognised striker”.This means that Gabriel Jesus could be in line to occupy the main striker role. It is important to remember that the Brazilian already dons the no.9 jersey, but has somehow failed to establish his place in Guardiola’s starting side.

For Jesus, getting regular minutes at the Etihad became a big issue last season as he was often spotted warming up the bench. The former Palmeiras forward had average numbers in front of the goal the last term as he could manage only nine goals in 29 league appearances.

PORTO, PORTUGAL – MAY 28: Gabriel Jesus of Manchester City smiles during the Manchester City FC Training Session ahead of the UEFA Champions League Final between Manchester City FC and Chelsea FC at Estadio do Dragao on May 28, 2021 in Porto, Portugal. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
PORTO, PORTUGAL – MAY 28: Gabriel Jesus of Manchester City smiles during the Manchester City FC Training Session ahead of the UEFA Champions League Final between Manchester City FC and Chelsea FC at Estadio do Dragao on May 28, 2021 in Porto, Portugal. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images) /

The 24-year-old has reportedly grown frustrated with his limited role under Guardiola. Consequently, this has forced the Brazilian to opt for an exit in the ongoing summer window.

This planned exit, however, may not work for the forward as he comes with a 60 million euro price tag for his services. Also, Juventus, who have been heavily linked with a move for the forward would likely refrain from spending that sort of money for the wantaway striker.

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Although if Manchester City fails to sign Harry Kane, then there are possibilities that doors could open for Jesus to make a mark as the main no.9.Last season, we saw how Guardiola tried to operate his side without a proper striker.

Well, the Spaniard could now change his plans for the new season as he has been desperate to bring a striker into his setup.

I honestly feel that the City boss could manage this star-studded side without having the services of a ‘world-class’ striker. A little faith in the young Brazilian would not be a terrible idea for the Spaniard as in the past we have seen how lethal Jesus has been in front of the goal.

Next. Manchester City have set sights on another young talent. dark