Barcelona are close to completing a deal to sign Arsenal forward Gabriel Jesus for £8.6 million, with the transfer expected to be finalised before Tuesday’s deadline.
The Brazil international has reportedly agreed to join the Spanish champions, with the remaining details of the move now being completed. Jesus is expected to travel for a medical on Monday.
Jesus set for Arsenal exit
The 29-year-old has not been involved in Arsenal’s preparations for their Premier League meeting with Aston Villa, adding to expectations that his five-year spell in north London is coming to an end.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta confirmed on Thursday that Jesus was training separately from the squad.
Asked whether the situation indicated that the striker was leaving, Arteta said: “Personal situations, whatever they are, I think it’s clear.”
Jesus joined Arsenal from Manchester City in 2022 and went on to make 123 appearances for the club, scoring 32 goals and providing 22 assists.
Napoli had also expressed an interest in the forward, but Barcelona have now emerged as his likely destination.
Barcelona strengthen Premier League links
Jesus would become Barcelona’s third signing from a Premier League club this summer.
The Catalan side have already brought in Anthony Gordon from Newcastle United and Rodri from Manchester City as they continue to strengthen their squad following another league title-winning campaign.
Barcelona had also been interested in Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez, who was reportedly a target for Arsenal. However, that pursuit has stalled after Atletico made clear they were unwilling to negotiate with their domestic rivals.
