Arsenal have reportedly registered their interest in Igor Jesus, the Botafogo striker whose performances over the past year have propelled him into the crosshairs of several European clubs, including two from the Premier League.
RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL - APRIL 05: Igor Jesus of Botafogo celebrates after scoring his team's third goal that was later disallowed by VAR during the match between Botafogo and Juventude as part of Brasileirao 2025 at Estadio Olímpico Nilton Santos on April 05, 2025 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)
Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images
The 24-year-old, who has also drawn attention from Fulham, Nottingham Forest, and clubs in Italy, is under contract with Botafogo until December 2027 but is now, apaprently, firmly on the radar of Arsenal’s recruitment team as they seek to add to their attacking options ahead of next season.
Arsenal’s interest is understood to be in the exploratory stage, but sources in Brazil suggest that a formal move after the Club World Cup is under consideration.
Forest are expected to table a new offer after the tournament, having seen a bid of £28.8m dismissed earlier this year. At the time, both the player and club were unwilling to entertain a move, with Igor prioritising Botafogo’s push for honours.
RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL - APRIL 16: Igor Jesus of Botafogo celebrates after scoring the team's second goal during the match between Botafogo and Sao Paulo as part of Brasileirao 2025 at Estadio Olímpico Nilton Santos on April 16, 2025 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)
Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images
Igor Jesus has scored 14 goals in 53 appearances for Botafogo since arriving from Shabab Al-Ahli in July 2024.
Last season, he played a pivotal role in the club’s success in both the Libertadores and Brasileirão, and his form has placed him in contention for a place in Carlo Ancelotti’s Brazil squad for the June World Cup qualifiers.
Though the Gunners are expected to bring in a more established name like Viktor Gyökeres, there is a sense at the club that recruitment could also prioritise long-term value and development potential.
Related Posts