Rancak Media – Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has firmly asserted his desire to keep Gabriel Jesus at the club, despite reports suggesting that The Gunners‘ management might be open to sanctioning the striker’s departure should a suitable offer materialize.
Gabriel Jesus has recently returned to full training with the Arsenal squad, marking the end of a protracted absence caused by a devastating knee ligament injury sustained during an FA Cup clash against Manchester United in January 2025. During his recovery, Arsenal strategically reinforced their attacking options, bringing in Viktor Gyokeres from Sporting CP during the summer 2025 transfer window. The club also frequently relied on Kai Havertz and even Mikel Merino to cover the central forward position. This influx of talent has significantly intensified the competition in Arsenal‘s frontline, leading to speculation that Jesus might face a formidable challenge in securing a regular spot in the starting XI once fully match-fit.
These developments have fueled increasing transfer speculation. A report from Football Transfers even indicates that the 28-year-old striker is actively considering a move away from the Emirates during the January 2026 transfer window. The rumors gained further momentum when TEAMtalk, citing journalist Dean Jones, reported that Arsenal had set a £30 million (approximately IDR 620 billion) price tag on their Brazilian forward. Everton is reportedly one of the clubs closely monitoring Jesus‘ situation, though they are said to be weighing both his wage demands and the potential transfer fee.
However, Arteta decisively shut down all such speculation. Ahead of Arsenal‘s Premier League clash against Sunderland at the Stadium of Light on Sunday, November 8th, the Spanish coach emphatically stated that Gabriel Jesus remains an integral part of his plans. “Yes, of course, I want him to stay here,” Arteta told the club’s official website. “We have frequently lost many forwards due to injuries. Currently, we don’t have Viktor [Gyokeres], Kai [Havertz] is also sidelined for three months, and numerous other attacking players are unavailable.”
“In a situation like this, having an option like Gabi [Jesus] is incredibly important,” he added, underscoring the vital role the forward plays. Arteta further conveyed his immense delight at seeing Jesus return to full training, noting that the former Manchester City player still possesses significant energy and spirit to compete at the highest level.
“He is extremely enthusiastic, full of energy, and possesses an unwavering winning mentality,” Arteta elaborated. “Despite enduring a challenging period due to injury, his hunger and determination have only intensified. I am confident he will bring something distinctly different to this team.” The Spanish coach expressed optimism that Jesus‘ presence will significantly enhance the attacking variation for an Arsenal side currently impressing in both the Premier League and the Champions League.
Meanwhile, other reports indicate several intriguing developments at the Emirates Stadium. One Arsenal star, who only signed a new contract a few months ago, is reportedly seeking another contract renewal. Concurrently, the club is also said to be pursuing a prominent Valencia player who was close to joining Manchester United last summer.
Summary
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has firmly asserted his desire to keep Gabriel Jesus at the club, despite ongoing transfer speculation. Rumors suggested Jesus might consider a move after returning from a significant knee injury and facing increased competition from new signings and players like Kai Havertz. Reports even indicated Arsenal had set a £30 million price tag on the striker, with Everton showing interest.
Arteta decisively shut down these speculations, stating Jesus remains an integral part of his plans. He emphasized Jesus’s importance, particularly due to the club’s numerous injured forwards, including Viktor Gyokeres and Kai Havertz. The coach expressed delight at Jesus’s return, highlighting his enthusiasm, energy, and winning mentality as vital for the team’s attacking variation.
