Barcelona are reportedly targeting a surprise name as part of their summer transfer business – Arsenal forward Gabriel Jesus. The Brazilian striker has emerged as a shock loan target for the Catalan giants, as they continue to reshape their squad under new manager Hansi Flick.
Although Barcelona have already secured several signings during the current window, Flick is said to be pushing for the addition of one more forward. Gabriel Jesus has now been shortlisted as a prime candidate – but the move depends heavily on the club’s ability to offload existing players and manage their wage bill.
Arsenal Open to Loaning Out Jesus After Injury-Struck Season
According to sources close to the situation, Arsenal are open to sending Gabriel Jesus out on loan after an underwhelming 2024/25 campaign, in which injuries significantly hampered his form and game time. With the Gunners eyeing fresh attacking reinforcements of their own, parting ways with Jesus on a temporary basis could make strategic sense.
This development has sparked interest from multiple elite clubs across Europe, all eager to capitalize on the opportunity to land a proven forward with Champions League experience.
However, Barcelona are looking to edge out the competition with a very specific proposal – and one that may prove to be a deal-breaker.
Fierce Competition for Jesus’s Signature
Despite his recent injury issues, Gabriel Jesus remains a highly sought-after talent, particularly due to his versatility, technical ability, and experience at the top level. Several European giants have already joined the race for his signature.
From the Premier League, both Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United have expressed interest in acquiring the 27-year-old. Meanwhile, Serie A heavyweights AC Milan and Juventus are also keeping close tabs on his situation.
Jesus is reportedly keen to stay in Europe and has a strong preference for playing in the UEFA Champions League – a factor that could work in Barcelona’s favor as they prepare for a return to the competition.
Barcelona’s Demands: A Loan Deal With a Salary Twist
In order to beat their rivals to the punch, Barcelona have laid out a loan-only proposal for the 2025/26 season. This approach mirrors their recent strategy with Marcus Rashford, whom they secured from Manchester United under a similar agreement.
However, there’s one major difference: Barcelona are insisting that Arsenal shoulder a larger share of Jesus’s wages throughout the loan period. This financial condition could prove decisive, especially considering Barcelona’s ongoing efforts to remain within La Liga’s salary cap regulations.
Reports suggest that Barcelona are unwilling to pay the full wage package due to their delicate financial situation. Instead, they want Arsenal to cover the majority of Jesus’s current salary – a demand that could either make or break the deal.
A Defining Moment for Arsenal and Barcelona
For Arsenal, this loan move could present a chance to rejuvenate Gabriel Jesus’s career while also freeing up resources for new arrivals. For Barcelona, securing a player of Jesus’s caliber on a short-term basis would enhance their attacking depth as they aim for silverware under Flick.
However, with multiple clubs circling and financial negotiations set to be tricky, the next few weeks will be crucial. Whether Barcelona’s loan-only approach – combined with their salary demands – will be enough to lure Gabriel Jesus away from North London remains to be seen.
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