Barcelona agree deal to sign Gabriel Jesus from Arsenal

Barcelona have reportedly reached an agreement with Arsenal to sign Brazilian striker Gabriel Jesus in a late move before the close of the transfer window.

The Catalan club have been searching for a new striker throughout the summer, with Atletico Madrid forward Julián Alvarez previously identified as their preferred target.

However, Atletico have remained firm on their decision not to sell Alvarez to Barcelona, forcing the Spanish giants to explore alternative options.

Alvarez returned to Atletico training on Sunday amid reports that he has accepted he will remain at the club for the time being.

Barcelona have now turned their attention to Jesus, with transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano reporting that the clubs have agreed a deal worth €10 million plus add-ons.

Jesus is reportedly expected to undergo a medical with Barcelona as the transfer moves closer to completion.

The 29-year-old has been linked with a departure from Arsenal after falling behind Kai Havertz and new signing Viktor Gyökeres in Mikel Arteta’s attacking pecking order.

The Brazilian joined Arsenal from Manchester City in 2022 and has since made more than 70 appearances for the club, although injuries have affected his time in north London.

Arteta was recently asked about the futures of Jesus and fellow Brazilian Gabriel Martinelli and suggested that departures could be possible.

“It’s inevitable, at some point you need to have certain discussions and say certain things that sometimes are tough,” he told reporters.

“I think everybody knows and recognises how much we love Gabi (Martinelli). Whatever the outcome is, it will be because everybody agrees to that.”

A move to Barcelona would give Jesus an opportunity to revive his career at one of Europe’s biggest clubs while providing Hansi Flick with another attacking option.

Barcelona have already made several moves during the transfer window and could now complete another surprise deal by bringing the Arsenal forward to the Camp Nou.