TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Barcelona are in advanced negotiations with Arsenal to sign Brazilian striker Gabriel Jesus for a reported fee of around €10 million (US$11.5 million), with the deal expected to be completed before the transfer window closes on Tuesday.
According to ESPN, a source said negotiations between the two clubs were "very advanced," with Jesus potentially traveling to Spain on Monday to complete his medical and finalize the transfer.
The 29-year-old is expected to join Barcelona, with the finer details of the agreement still being finalized.
Jesus has fallen down Arsenal's striker pecking order following the arrivals and emergence of Kai Havertz and Viktor Gyökeres. He was left out of the squad for the Community Shield victory over Manchester City and Arsenal's Premier League opening-day win over Coventry City.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta confirmed on Thursday that Jesus was not training with the squad ahead of the club's Premier League match against Aston Villa.
Asked whether the absence indicated that Jesus was leaving Arsenal, Arteta said: "Personal situations, whatever they are, I think it's clear."
Jesus joined Arsenal from Manchester City in 2022. He has made 123 appearances for the Gunners, scoring 32 goals and providing 22 assists. Last season, he made 27 appearances in all competitions and scored six goals.
Gabriel Jesus Emerges as Barcelona's Alternative to Julian Alvarez
The potential transfer emerged after Barcelona's efforts to sign Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez stalled.
ESPN reported that Barcelona had made Alvarez their primary target after the departures of Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres. However, Atletico have refused to negotiate with their Spanish rivals and have accused Barcelona of approaching Alvarez improperly.
The breakdown in negotiations prompted Barcelona to explore alternative options for a natural No. 9.
Raphinha has operated as a central striker in Barcelona's opening two matches of the season and scored three goals, but coach Hansi Flick wants another specialist center-forward in his squad.
According to ESPN, the potential arrival of Jesus would not necessarily end Barcelona's longer-term interest in Alvarez.
Jesus offers Barcelona versatility because he can operate across the forward line and contribute to build-up play rather than functioning solely as a traditional center-forward.
Jesus' Injury Record a Concern for Barcelona
BBC Sport noted that Jesus' injury history could be a significant consideration for Barcelona.
The Brazilian suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury to his left knee in January 2025 that kept him out for 10 months. He has also experienced other significant knee problems during his time at Arsenal.
Despite those concerns, Barcelona see the potential transfer as a relatively low-cost opportunity to add an experienced forward with Premier League pedigree.
Jesus previously spent six seasons at Manchester City, making 236 appearances and scoring 95 goals before moving to Arsenal.
If Jesus completes his move to Barcelona, he would become the Spanish champions' third signing from a Premier League club this summer, following Anthony Gordon from Newcastle United and Rodri from Manchester City.
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