Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta
Image credit: Getty Images
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has dismissed speculation linking Gabriel Jesus with a January move away from the Emirates Stadium. Reports had suggested that the Brazilian striker could return to his former club Palmeiras in South America, but Arteta firmly ruled out the possibility.
When asked about the rumors during a press conference, Arteta responded unequivocally: “No, no sense.”
The 27-year-old Jesus, who joined Arsenal from Manchester City in a £45 million deal in 2022, has endured a difficult season. He has scored just one goal in his last 31 appearances for the Gunners and has struggled for game time, starting only six matches this campaign. His last start came in Arsenal’s 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest on November 23.
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With competition from Kai Havertz in Arsenal’s lineup, Jesus has seen limited minutes, which has also impacted his position in the Brazil national team. However, Arteta expressed his confidence in the striker’s ability to overcome his current struggles.
Gabriel Jesus
Gabriel Jesus (Image credit: Getty Images)
“Like all strikers, they go through phases and moments, and that gap is becoming big,” Arteta admitted. “It’s true that a lot has happened—injuries, absences, not playing or starting games as much. But his attitude has been really good, as it always is, and we’re going to try to help him overcome the situation as soon as possible.”
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Despite backing Jesus, Arsenal are reportedly exploring options to bolster their attack in the January transfer window. Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak, Brighton’s Joao Pedro, and Evan Ferguson are among the names linked to the Gunners.
According to reports, Arsenal are prepared to offer £54 million to sign Pedro from Brighton, while Ferguson might be available on loan. The 20-year-old striker made a splash during the 2022/23 season, including a Premier League hat-trick against Newcastle, but has struggled for form and minutes under new Brighton manager Fabian Hürzeler.
With Danny Welbeck enjoying a resurgence, Ferguson has fallen down the pecking order at Brighton. A loan move to Arsenal could provide him with valuable playing time, although the Gunners may push for a permanent transfer if he fits into Arteta’s long-term plans.
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