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Barcelona couldn't get Julián Álvarez – now they are close to signing a surprise striker from Arsenal

30. August 2026
Gabriel Jesus (foto: Getty Images)
Barcelona are closing in on a deal for Arsenal striker Gabriel Jesus, with the Brazilian keen on a Camp Nou move after falling down the hierarchy in London.
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Barcelona has made a significant move in its search for a new striker by opening advanced negotiations with Arsenal for Gabriel Jesus. An agreement between the clubs is reportedly getting closer, while the 29-year-old Brazilian is keen to move to Camp Nou before the transfer window closes.

The Catalans turned their attention to Jesus after Atlético Madrid refused to negotiate over Julián Álvarez. Following Robert Lewandowski's departure, Barcelona needs another central striker and now sees the Arsenal forward as an achievable solution for the current window.

Jesus ready for new challenge

Jesus remains under contract with Arsenal until 2027, but his position has changed considerably. Kai Havertz and Viktor Gyökeres are now ahead of him in the attacking hierarchy, leaving the former Manchester City striker open to a move.

Barcelona is particularly attractive to Jesus, who reportedly dreamed of representing the Catalan club while still playing for Palmeiras before joining Manchester City in 2016.

Before entering concrete negotiations, Barcelona also checked the Brazilian's physical condition. Jesus suffered a serious anterior cruciate ligament injury in January 2025, but has completed his recovery and is ready to play again.

The Brazilian would bring considerable Premier League experience to Camp Nou. He scored 95 goals in 236 appearances for Manchester City before joining Arsenal, where he has registered 33 goals in 123 matches.

Julián Álvarez remains the dream

A deal for Jesus would not necessarily end Barcelona's interest in Álvarez. The Argentine remains one of the club's major long-term targets, but Atlético's refusal to negotiate has forced Barcelona to consider alternatives.

For now, Jesus is the most realistic option. Arsenal are prepared to discuss his departure, the player wants Barcelona, and negotiations between the clubs are moving towards an agreement.

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