FC Barcelona are reportedly keeping a close eye on Arsenal forward Gabriel Jesus, following the Gunners’ high-profile capture of Swedish striker Viktor Gyokeres. With Arsenal bolstering their attacking options, Jesus’s place in Mikel Arteta’s future plans is now in question, and several European clubs—most notably Barcelona—have begun exploring the possibility of securing his services.
The Catalan club is in search of a long-term solution in the No. 9 role, as Robert Lewandowski, their only senior traditional striker, enters the twilight of his career. According to reports by Caught Offside, Barcelona, alongside Inter Milan and Newcastle United, are carefully monitoring Jesus’s situation at the Emirates Stadium.
Gabriel Jesus Biography
| Full Name | Gabriel Fernando de Jesus |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | April 3, 1997 |
| Age | 28 |
| Nationality | Brazilian |
| Current Club | Arsenal FC |
| Position | Forward |
| Previous Clubs | Palmeiras, Manchester City |
| Contract Expiry | 2027 |
| Injury History | Multiple knee injuries; ACL tear (2024) |
| Market Value | Estimated €35–40 million |
The Situation at Arsenal
Gabriel Jesus was once viewed as the centerpiece of Arsenal’s attacking line, leading a youthful squad to a surprising Premier League title charge in the 2022/23 season. His initial impact was immense—quick link-up play, intelligent movement, and pressing intensity made him a fan favorite and vital to Arteta’s tactical setup.
However, repeated injuries have marred his consistency. Most notably, an ACL injury sustained in January 2024 sidelined him for an extended period. Arsenal adapted well in his absence, with rising stars and system tweaks keeping the team competitive across multiple fronts.
The recent €70 million signing of Viktor Gyokeres now places further doubt on Jesus’s future. With a younger, physically robust, and more injury-resistant striker added to the roster, questions naturally arise: Is Gabriel Jesus now surplus to requirements at Arsenal?
Barcelona’s Striker Puzzle
Barcelona’s pursuit of Jesus is rooted in strategic necessity. Lewandowski, now 36, cannot carry the frontline alone, especially with the team playing across domestic and European competitions.
While Barcelona have been linked to younger forwards like Vitor Roque and Nico Williams, the club’s leadership—including Joan Laporta—is looking for a seasoned striker who can immediately compete at the highest level. Jesus, despite recent injuries, fits this profile well:
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Champions League experience
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Premier League & La Liga adaptability
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Work ethic that aligns with Barcelona’s pressing philosophy
Why Jesus Is Still Valued in Europe
Despite injury setbacks, Gabriel Jesus remains a sought-after talent in European football for several reasons:
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Tactical Versatility – Capable of playing as a central striker, winger, or second forward.
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Experience – Over 250 games combined in the Premier League and UEFA competitions.
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Pressing & Intelligence – Offers elite off-the-ball movement and defensive pressing.
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Professionalism – Maintains a high level of discipline and team-first attitude.
These attributes continue to appeal to clubs like Inter, Newcastle, and Barcelona, who seek reliable offensive contributors—not just flashy goal scorers.
Will Jesus Stay or Go?
Jesus’s contract with Arsenal runs until 2027, meaning the club retains significant control over his future. However, a sale in 2025 would be logical if Arsenal sense a decline in form or fitness.
There have even been rumors of a return to Brazil, with former club Palmeiras said to be interested. Still, Jesus is reportedly not ready to leave European football, and sources suggest he prefers to remain at the elite level.
A move to Barcelona could offer the best of both worlds: a fresh challenge and a high-profile platform to reignite his career.
FAQs
Why is Barcelona interested in Gabriel Jesus?
Barcelona need another experienced striker to complement Lewandowski and are eyeing Jesus due to his experience, versatility, and work rate.
Is Gabriel Jesus leaving Arsenal?
Nothing is confirmed yet, but with Arsenal signing Gyokeres and Jesus’s injuries piling up, a transfer is possible in the next window.
What is Gabriel Jesus’s injury status?
He suffered a major ACL tear in January 2024 and is expected to return later in the year. His fitness will be closely monitored by potential suitors.
Which clubs are interested in Gabriel Jesus?
Reportedly, Barcelona, Inter Milan, and Newcastle United are keeping tabs on his situation.
Conclusion
Gabriel Jesus is entering a crucial phase of his career. Once a guaranteed starter at Arsenal, he now faces competition and uncertainty after the arrival of Viktor Gyokeres. Barcelona’s interest reflects not just a need for depth, but a belief that the Brazilian still has top-level football in him.
If Jesus recovers well and gets back to form, a move to a club like Barcelona could be a revival and redemption story—and a smart acquisition for the Blaugrana.
