Mikel Arteta

Arsenal are poised to open the exit door for Gabriel Jesus in the January transfer window, listening to offers for the Brazilian striker who has struggled to justify his £45m price tag since arriving from Manchester City in July 2022. The 28-year-old, sidelined by a torn ACL since January 2025, is nearing a return to fitness but faces an uphill battle to reclaim his spot under Mikel Arteta.

A Promising Start That Faded

Gabriel Jesus

Jesus arrived at the Emirates with high expectations, tasked with replacing the firepower of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Alexandre Lacazette. His debut season delivered 11 goals across all competitions, but form and fitness woes have since plagued him, just seven Premier League strikes in the last two years. The injury sustained in Arsenal’s FA Cup loss to Manchester United could mark his final chapter in north London, as the club eyes a squad overhaul.

Unlike his trophy-haunted stint at City, where he lifted 10 honors. Jesus has yet to taste silverware with the Gunners, adding to the frustration.

Squad Surplus: Gyokores and Havertz Seal His Fate

Viktor Gyokores and Kai Havertz

The summer arrival of Viktor Gyokores from Sporting CP has reshaped Arsenal’s attack, with the Swede thriving as the focal point. Kai Havertz‘s versatility as a false nine further diminishes Jesus’ role, rendering him surplus amid a “quiet” winter window after heavy summer spending.

Arsenal legend Alan Smith echoed the sentiment in a Metro interview, suggesting it’s time to “move on” from the underperformer.

Suitors Circle: Flamengo, Palmeiras, and Everton Lead the Chase

Gabriel Jesus and Thomas Partey

Interest is brewing from Jesus’ homeland, with Flamengo and Palmeiras eyeing a sentimental return, while Everton are “serious” about a Premier League switch. Two unnamed Premier League clubs have already inquired, per reports. 3 AC Milan has shown curiosity, but Arsenal’s £30-35m valuation, down from the original fee, may prove a sticking point.

Tied until June 2027, Jesus’ market value hovers at €32m, per Transfermarkt. This follows Arsenal’s ruthless clear-out: low-fee sales for Nuno Tavares, Marquinhos, and Albert Sambi Lokonga; loans for Jakub Kiwior, Reiss Nelson, and others; and free exits for Thomas Partey, Kieran Tierney, and Jorginho.

January Verdict: Revival or Farewell?

A strong comeback could sway Arteta, especially after Jesus’ pre-injury hot streak (6 goals in 6 games). But with Gyokores firing and Havertz adapting, the writing’s on the wall.