Arsenal's £45m star tipped to 'make a statement' amid January exit claims

Arsenal are reportedly willing to let Gabriel Jesus go in the January transfer window as the Brazilian star continues to struggle with form. Mikel Arteta’s side are continually being linked with a move for a new number nine and Bayer Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz is said to be the latest addition to the attacking shortlist.

If the attacking midfielder were to be signed by the N7 club, this would likely signal the end of Jesus’ time in north London as reports from FourFourTwo indicate the Gunners are ‘accepting’ to let the Brazilian leave.

Currently, Arteta typically opts for Kai Havertz to lead the front line with Leandro Trossard, Gabriel Martinelli, Bukayo Saka and the new on-loan arrival of Raheem Sterling helping the frontline. Jesus, however, has struggled since arriving from Manchester City in 2022 and could be the star to make way if a new signing is imminent.

The 27-year-old Brazilian had an impressive start to his north London life, helping Arteta’s club to reach the top of the Premier League table prior to the World Cup break. However, he was soon hit by numerous injury concerns which have reduced his Premier League appearances to just 57 in just over two seasons.

The latest news from Brazil news outlet BolaVIP indicate that Jesus could be set for a move back to his former club. BolaVIP writes that the Brazilian club Palmeiras are working on a potential deal to bring Jesus back to the club and the Gunners are said to be more than happy for this to take place in January.

The Serie A side would have to cough up around €40 million (£34m) for their youth star and while this would be a particularly high figure for the Verdao, the club are said to want to ‘make a statement’ ahead of their appearance in next summer’s Club World Cup.

At £34m, Arsenal would still be making a loss after first purchasing the star for £45m in July 2022, but as he is costing them a reported £265,000-a-week, the Gunners may well be keen to have him off their wage bills as his struggle for goals continues .