Barcelona have reached an agreement with Arsenal to sign Gabriel Jesús for €10 million plus incentives, with the Brazilian forward set to provide additional attacking cover for Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres.
According to Mundo Deportivo, the 29-year-old is expected in Barcelona for his medical before completing the final details of the transfer.
Barcelona see the deal as a market opportunity and believe Jesús can offer valuable versatility in Hansi Flick’s attack. The German coach appreciates forwards who can link play, lead the press and operate in different positions across the front line.
Jesús’ arrival will not end Barcelona’s interest in Julián Álvarez. The club remain keen on the Atlético Madrid striker, although his potential move to Camp Nou has been vetoed by Atlético. Barça could revisit the situation in a future transfer window, provided Álvarez does not return to the Premier League.
Flick has already shown a willingness to use Raphinha centrally this season, with the Brazilian scoring three goals in Barcelona’s opening two league matches while also playing an important role in the press.
Jesús is not a traditional penalty-box striker. During his time under Pep Guardiola at Manchester City, he was frequently deployed in wider positions, highlighting the flexibility he could bring to Flick’s system.
Arsenal signed Jesús from Manchester City for €52 million in July 2022 at Mikel Arteta’s request. However, a knee injury disrupted the beginning of his Arsenal career, although he still finished his first season with 11 goals.
His form declined during the 2023-24 campaign before an anterior cruciate ligament injury in January 2025 ruled him out for almost 11 months. Last season, Jesús made 14 Premier League appearances for Arsenal, starting three matches and scoring three goals.
A product of the Palmeiras academy, Jesús has not represented Brazil since November 2023. Barcelona nevertheless believe he can rediscover his best form before turning 30 and see him as a player capable of performing the 'nine-and-a-half' role envisioned by Flick.
The move would give Barcelona another experienced attacking option while allowing the club to maintain their longer-term pursuit of Álvarez.