Arsenal striker Gabriel Jesus is nearing a move to Barcelona, with the Spanish club reportedly closing in on a deal worth approximately £8.6 million. The transfer is expected to be completed before the Tuesday deadline.
Jesus was absent from Arsenal's squad for their initial two matches of the season and has been training separately from the first team. He joined Arsenal in 2022 from Manchester City but has often been a reserve player under manager Mikel Arteta. A cruciate ligament tear significantly impacted his 2025 season.
Arsenal's acquisition of Viktor Gyokeres as their primary striker last summer and their pursuit of Atletico Madrid's Julian Alvarez, if successful, would further limit Jesus's opportunities at the club.
The 29-year-old Jesus has reportedly agreed to a two-year contract at Camp Nou. He had previously been a target for Napoli this summer but turned down the move.
Meanwhile, Arsenal's pursuit of Alvarez remains active, although Atletico Madrid has stated they will not sell the player to Barcelona. Atletico has reportedly given Alvarez until the weekend to decide his future, presenting him with the options to move to Arsenal or remain with his current club. Alvarez has missed training sessions, citing illness, since Atletico informed him of their decision regarding a transfer to Barcelona. Atletico CEO Gil Marin emphatically stated that Alvarez would not be transferred to FC Barcelona during his tenure.
Arsenal is reportedly prepared to offer up to £128 million for Alvarez. Separately, Arsenal has also agreed to a £7.8 million deal to sell midfielder Fabio Vieira to Hamburg.