Barcelona have reportedly identified Arsenal’s Gabriel Jesus as a potential summer signing. The Spanish club are looking to bolster their attacking options. Arsenal are said to be open to selling the Brazilian striker.
Barcelona’s Striker Search and Jesus’s Availability
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick and sporting director Deco are reportedly keen to sign a striker. Their aim is to find a replacement for the outgoing Robert Lewandowski. A Spanish report has credited Barcelona with an interest in Jesus.
Arsenal are reportedly ready to sell Jesus to Barcelona. The potential transfer fee is a fixed €30million, with add-ons of €15m.
Arsenal’s Stance on Jesus’s Departure
Jesus has faced injury problems and isn’t a regular starter under manager Mikel Arteta. Former Arsenal star Ray Parlour believes Jesus might leave this summer. Parlour stated on May 3, “I think Jesus might leave at the end of the season, he is at that age where he wants to be playing week in, week out.”
Parlour added: “We could lose him. We had four strikers when I played. That’s what I don’t understand.” He suggested Arsenal should bring in another striker regardless of Jesus leaving. “That can give the other options a lift because they see the standard being set.”
Potential Replacements and Arsenal’s Striker Options
Parlour suggested Alvarez as a potential addition to the Arsenal squad. “For me, Alvarez would be a great addition to the squad. There will always be people coming and going in the summer because it’s a big squad and they can’t keep everyone happy. But Alvarez would be a fantastic option to have with his pace and what we saw at Man City.”
Arsenal also have Viktor Gyokeres and Kai Havertz as recognised centre-forwards. It has been reported that Arsenal are willing to sell Gyokeres at the end of the season.
Arsenal are aiming to win the Premier League and the Champions League this season.