Gabriel Jesus is keen to stay at Arsenal and fight for his place in Mikel Arteta’s side, amid rumours the Brazilian ace could depart the club this summer. Jesus arrived at the Emirates Stadium two years ago but has found starts hard to come by during Arsenal’s title run-in.
Billed as one of the missing pieces in Arteta’s jigsaw when he penned a £45million move to Arsenal in July 2022, Jesus played a key role for the north Londoners in his maiden season. A contributor to 18 goals during the 2022/23 campaign, Jesus’ performances – hampered by injuries – haven’t matched that same level this time around.
Since returning from a knee injury in February, Jesus hasn’t yet played a full 90-minute match in the Premier League. What’s more, of Arsenal’s 10 league outings during that time, the ex-Manchester City ace has started just four, with Kai Havertz emerging as the preferred man to lead Arteta’s attacking line.
It has led to reports that Arsenal could look to move Jesus on this summer amid his injury woes. However, The Sun have since claimed that Jesus is settled at the capital club and is prepared to fight for his spot in the side.
It’s believed that Jesus is enjoying his time in north London – both on and off the pitch – and is confident he’ll be able to regain his spot in the starting XI. On top of that, boss Arteta is said to still view Jesus as a key member of his dressing room, given he, unlike some of Arsenal’s younger stars, has experience of winning the Premier League title.
Although, it will come as little solace to Jesus if his minutes don’t improve and there’s every chance he could be pushed further down the Gunners’ pecking order. As per the same report, Arsenal are set to push forward with plans to sign a new centre forward when the summer transfer window is open for business.
While targets from across the continent are still being scouted, the likes of Benjamin Sesko, Viktor Gyokeres, and even Newcastle United sensation, Alexander Isak, have all been mooted as potential options. And should the 13-time English champions be successful in signing a striker, it’s possible Jesus could find his time on the pitch cut even further.
Jesus will be looking to make an impression this weekend, as Arsenal continue their title push at home to Bournemouth. Arteta’s side currently lead the way, one point clear of reigning champions City, who boast a game in hand.
