Arsenal’s plans for Gabriel Jesus may have become more complicated just days before the summer window truly kicks into gear.
Over the last few weeks, the Brazilian himself has only added to the uncertainty. He talked about renewing with Arsenal, insisted a return to Brazil is still his dream, complained a bit about Arteta’s tactics and opened the door to a move.
AC Milan have been heavily linked with the Brazilian in recent months. Juventus have also been repeatedly mentioned. Now, though, there is a third major European name entering the picture – and arguably the most interesting one yet.
Arsenal striker attracting wider interest
According to Brazilian outlet Trivela, Atlético Madrid have also made enquiries about Gabriel Jesus in recent weeks.
The report explains that Gabriel Jesus is increasingly viewed as one of Arsenal’s negotiable players this summer, despite helping the club win the Premier League title.
Injuries disrupted his season again, and Viktor Gyökeres arrived to claim the top spot in the attacking hierarchy. Even so, Gabriel Jesus still contributed with six goals and two assists in 27 appearances.
The report also points out something important: Milan and Juventus missing out on the Champions League could affect their chances.
Ironically, it could also mean more playing time for him there. Juventus, for example, may lose Dusan Vlahovic this summer, potentially opening a clearer path to regular starts.
Still, Atlético Madrid now look particularly interesting in comparison.
Simeone factor emerges
According to the report, Atlético’s interest is linked to uncertainty around Julián Álvarez, who is attracting attention from Barcelona and other European clubs.
If Álvarez leaves, Diego Simeone would need another mobile forward capable of pressing, linking play and attacking space aggressively. That would be Gabriel Jesus.
The report even suggests Jesus shares several physical and technical traits with the Argentine forward.
And unlike Milan or Juventus, Atlético will play Champions League football next season, arrive with far greater short-term stability and still look capable of competing deep into major tournaments.
For a player who still wants to prove himself at elite level, Atlético may simply make more sense than the Italian options right now.
What happens next
Gabriel Jesus still has one year left on his Arsenal contract. The club appear increasingly open to offers, especially after setting an asking pricearound €30m (£26m) in recent Brazilian reports.
Now, though, the race may be expanding beyond Italy. And honestly, Atlético Madrid entering the conversation is significant.
For weeks, this has looked like a story exclusively about Italy, with Brazil being a long shot fueled by mixed messages from the player himself.
Suddenly, Diego Simeone may have entered the chat.