Arsenal are still optimistic of landing major targets like Manchester City’s Gabriel Jesus despite a likely lack of Champions League football.

The Athletic report that even Arsenal failing to make the Champions League next season won’t end their plans for major summer signings.

The Gunners are reportedly still optimistic about completing deals for the likes of Gabriel Jesus, believing their project, the city, and the club make a compelling case.

On the other hand, Arsenal’s summer budget will certainly take a hit, and may result in one or two fewer signings overall.

Speaking to Sky Sports last week, David Ornstein claimed that Jesus of Manchester City is at the top of Arsenal’s list for signings in the striker position.

Jesus reportedly does exactly what Mikel Arteta is looking for in a striker, as well as having a personal relationship with both Arteta and Arsenal technical director Edu.

Ornstein added that it’s not yet clear whether Manchester City will let Jesus go, but with no sign of contract talks on the horizon, a deal is very possible.

Fabrizio Romano then claimed Arsenal were preparing their opening bid for Jesus. Manchester City are asking for around €50-60m to sell – even if they can’t extend his deal.

But that was all before Arsenal’s defeat to Newcastle United on Monday.

Now that Champions League football is all but out of the question, many fans expected that to end the Gunners’ chances of signing Jesus.

The Athletic’s report suggests it’s not that simple, it’s just going to be a harder sell now.