CORNERFLICK
Barcelona have reportedly stepped up their pursuit of Arsenal forward Gabriel Jesus as the Catalan giants search for a new No. 9 following Robert Lewandowski’s departure.
The Brazilian striker has emerged as one of Barça’s leading attacking targets after the club failed to reach an agreement with Atletico Madrid over Julián Álvarez.
**Barcelona Turn Attention to Gabriel Jesus ** Barcelona are looking to reshape their attack and believe Jesus could represent an attractive and relatively affordable option in the transfer market.
The 29-year-old remains under contract with Arsenal until 2027, but his position at the Premier League club has become increasingly uncertain amid competition for places from Kai Havertz and Viktor Gyökeres.
With his opportunities potentially limited, Jesus is understood to be open to a new challenge. A move to Barcelona would be particularly appealing to the Brazil international, who has reportedly long held ambitions of playing for the Catalan club.
Barcelona have also assessed Jesus’ fitness following the cruciate ligament injury he suffered in January 2025. The club are understood to be satisfied with his recovery and believe he is physically capable of playing an important role in their attack.
**Proven Premier League Experience ** Jesus would arrive at Barcelona with considerable experience at the highest level.
During his time at Manchester City, where he played under Pep Guardiola, the Brazilian scored 95 goals in 236 appearances. He later joined Arsenal and has since registered 33 goals in 123 games.
His ability to operate both as a central striker and across the front line could make him an attractive option for Barcelona as they look to rebuild their attacking department.
A move for Jesus would not, however, signal the end of Barça’s interest in Julián Álvarez. The Argentine remains a long-term target and could be pursued again in a future transfer window.
**Napoli Also in the Race ** Barcelona are not the only club interested in Jesus.
Reports last week suggested the Arsenal forward had already given his approval to a potential move to Napoli. The Brazilian is believed to be open to playing in Serie A, with Italy among the destinations he would consider.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, however, Napoli need to complete several outgoing deals before making a formal offer to Arsenal. The Italian champions are reportedly looking to sell Romelu Lukaku and another player before moving for Jesus.
That situation could give Barcelona an opportunity to move ahead in the race.
**Barcelona Open Talks With Arsenal ** Barcelona have reportedly entered advanced negotiations with Arsenal as they attempt to complete a deal for Jesus.
The proposed agreement would see the Brazilian sign a two-year contract at the Camp Nou, with an option for a further season.
Barça are also understood to have offered Arsenal a transfer fee in the region of €10 million.
At that price, Jesus could represent a valuable market opportunity for a Barcelona side undergoing major changes in attack.
The Catalan club have already strengthened their forward line with the arrivals of Anthony Gordon and Karim Adeyemi, while Robert Lewandowski, Ferran Torres and Marcus Rashford have departed.
Adding Jesus would give Barcelona an experienced and versatile No. 9 capable of providing an immediate option in attack while the club continues to monitor longer-term targets.
With Napoli also interested and Arsenal potentially willing to negotiate, Barcelona’s next move could prove decisive in determining where Gabriel Jesus plays next.