Barcelona eyes both forwards as part of their attacking overhaul following Lewandowski's departure
Category: Sports
Arsenal Football Club is preparing for a summer transfer window marked by potential exits, with reports indicating that both Viktor Gyokeres and Gabriel Jesus are on the market. According to Spanish media, Barcelona is interested in acquiring the two strikers as they seek to revamp their attacking lineup following the departure of Robert Lewandowski.
Viktor Gyokeres, 27, has been a standout performer for Arsenal during the 2025/26 season, scoring 21 goals and providing three assists across 52 matches in all competitions. His impressive form has made him a key player for the Gunners, but Arsenal is reportedly willing to negotiate his sale for around €67 million (£58.1 million) if Barcelona expresses a serious interest. With Arsenal aiming for success in both the Premier League and the Champions League, the club may entertain offers that align with their financial goals.
In addition to Gyokeres, Barcelona is also eyeing Gabriel Jesus, who has faced challenges this season due to injuries and competition for starting positions. The Brazilian forward has had a tumultuous time since joining Arsenal from Manchester City in 2022, where he initially transformed the team’s attacking style. Under manager Mikel Arteta, he helped instill a sense of confidence and aggression in the squad, but injuries have limited his impact, as he has started only two of his 13 Premier League appearances this season.
Jesus, now 29, is reportedly available for a fixed fee of €30 million plus potential add-ons of €15 million (approximately £13 million). His current contract runs until 2027, but with Arsenal’s reshaping of the squad and the emergence of Gyokeres and Kai Havertz as preferred options, the club is prepared to part ways with him. This decision reflects a broader strategy under Arsenal’s sporting director Andrea Berta, who has been proactive in setting transfer prices that maximize the club's return.
In the aftermath of Lewandowski’s departure from Barcelona, the Catalan club is in urgent need of a new striker. Manager Hansi Flick and sporting director Deco are considering Jesus as a viable option, citing his pace, pressing ability, and versatility in attack as key attributes that would fit into Barcelona’s dynamic playing style. The club’s interest in Jesus is bolstered by his extensive experience in the Premier League, which could translate well into La Liga.
Barcelona's financial situation, particularly concerning player wages, complicates the potential transfer. Jesus is reported to earn around £265,000 per week, a salary that could be a barrier for clubs in Serie A like AC Milan and Juventus, who have also shown interest in the forward. If Jesus is to move, he may need to accept a wage reduction or Arsenal could explore creative negotiations to facilitate the transfer.
The upcoming summer transfer window will likely be a decisive period for Arsenal as they look to fine-tune their squad. With both Gyokeres and Jesus potentially leaving, the club is also rumored to be targeting new additions, including Julian Alvarez from Atletico Madrid, as they aim to bolster their attacking options. Such moves would signify a shift in Arsenal’s ambitions, as they look to compete at the highest levels both domestically and in Europe.
As Arsenal navigates this transitional phase, the club is likely to prioritize securing funds through player sales to reinvest in the squad. The reported asking price for Jesus indicates a strategic approach to negotiations, contrasting with past management practices where players often left for less than their market value. Berta’s insistence on a higher asking price for Jesus reflects a new era in Arsenal’s transfer dealings.
In the broader footballing narrative, the departures of both Gyokeres and Jesus could mark a turning point for Arsenal, as they seek to redefine their squad and aspirations. Fans and analysts alike will follow closely closely to see how these developments play out, particularly as the summer approaches and the window opens for negotiations.
As the transfer saga continues, both players’ futures remain uncertain, but it is clear that Arsenal is entering a new chapter. The club’s willingness to engage in discussions with Barcelona and other interested parties signals a shift in strategy, one that aims to balance financial prudence with competitive ambition.