Mikel Arteta has categorically denied rumors suggesting that Arsenal is considering bids for Gabriel Jesus during the upcoming summer transfer period, emphasizing his commitment to keeping the player on the team.
The Brazilian forward is amidst his second term at the Emirates after transferring from Manchester City for £45 million in July 2022. However, his season has been marred by recurring injuries.
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Jesus has managed to make only 24 Premier League appearances, scoring a mere four goals—a tally that is surpassed by seven of his teammates and equaled by defender Ben White.
Recently, Kai Havertz has overtaken him as the lead attacker, and with Arsenal actively seeking a new forward, Jesus has been the subject of transfer speculation, with reports suggesting his tenure at the club is uncertain and that Arsenal is open to entertaining suitable offers for him.
Nevertheless, Arteta has firmly quashed this burgeoning conjecture about Jesus’ tenure with the club, unequivocally stating that plans to sell the 27-year-old are not being considered.
When asked at his pre-match press conference on Friday if the reports about the club being open to selling Jesus are accurate, Arteta replied firmly: ‘I don’t know where this is coming from.’
Probed further on whether he has any intention of letting Jesus leave the Emirates this summer, Arteta said: ‘No. no.’
Jesus is reportedly content and well-adjusted to life in north London, with no desire to depart from Arsenal. He remains optimistic that a comprehensive pre-season during the summer will catalyze a resurgence in his performance.
Concurrently, Arteta is intent on enhancing his team by recruiting a new, dependable striker. Arsenal has been associated with potential signings including Brentford’s Ivan Toney and Sporting’s Viktor Gyokeres, signaling the club’s ambition to strengthen their offensive lineup.
When he was asked last month about Arsenal’s pursuit of a new striker, Jesus said: ‘They already know if they want to so maybe this question is not for me.
‘My job is to try to work, train hard, improve what I have to improve and in the games try to help Arsenal win and then after obviously win trophies.
‘The speculation will always be there, not only here but every club. People want to decide who the club want to sign. This is happening not just at Arsenal but at a lot of clubs.’
Arsenal’s top goal-scorer this campaign is Bukayo Saka, netting 15 goals, with Kai Havertz trailing closely with 12, and Leandro Trossard contributing 10.
These figures significantly overshadow the goal tallies of Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah, the latter of whom is also rumored to be considering a move away in the summer.
The Gunners are set to face Bournemouth in the upcoming Saturday lunchtime match at the Emirates Stadium. A victory would allow them to extend their lead over Manchester City by four points, ahead of City’s match against Wolves later that day.
