Atletico Madrid eye Gabriel Jesus as Kolo Muani’s agent tries to get Arsenal attention | OneFootball

Atletico Madrid have emerged as a potential destination for Gabriel Jesus, with the La Liga giants reportedly interested in signing the 27-year-old Brazilian forward.

The interest comes at a time when Jesus has been struggling for form at Arsenal, and is no longer guaranteed a starting role under Mikel Arteta.

LONDON, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 05: Gabriel Jesus of Arsenal reacts during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Southampton FC at Emirates Stadium on October 05, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)

Reports from Spain, notably via Fichajes, suggest Atletico Madrid are considering a move for Jesus in the upcoming transfer window.

Jesus, who joined Arsenal from Manchester City in 2022, has been inconsistent for the Gunners, and his lack of goal-scoring impact and struggles with injuries has seen him fall down the pecking order.

Atletico, known for getting the best out of players in need of a revival, are believed to see Jesus as a player capable of thriving under Diego Simeone’s tactical system.

While Jesus’s versatility—able to play centrally or on either wing—adds value, his performances in the Premier League this season have been largely underwhelming with just 94 minutes played, spread across seven games.

LONDON, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 05: Gabriel Jesus of Arsenal runs with the ball under pressure from Joe Aribo of Southampton during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Southampton FC at Emirates Stadium on October 05, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)

A move to Spain could provide a fresh start, allowing the forward to rediscover the form that made him a key figure during his time at Manchester City.

Arsenal, on the other hand, might consider cashing in on Jesus, should an acceptable offer be presented, though they have rebuffed recent advances.

Palmeiras had also recently shown interest in re-signing their former star. Club president Leila Pereira confirmed that Palmeiras had approached Arsenal about a possible return for Jesus, aiming to make him a marquee signing ahead of the expanded Club World Cup.

LONDON, ENGLAND – AUGUST 07: Gabriel Jesus of Arsenal celebrates after scoring the third goal during the pre-season friendly match between Arsenal and Bayer 04 Leverkusen at Emirates Stadium on August 07, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Warren Little/Getty Images)

However, Arsenal were clear in their response: Jesus was not for sale. Speaking to O Globo, Pereira stated, “We got in touch with Arsenal, and they said: ‘Leila, there are no conditions whatsoever. We are not going to negotiate the athlete.’ Closed the subject.”

Despite this, Atletico Madrid’s interest is likely to prove more enticing for Arsenal and Jesus, particularly if they see an opportunity to reinvest funds elsewhere.

FRANKFURT AM MAIN, GERMANY – AUGUST 05: Randal Kolo Muani of Eintracht Frankfurt reacts during the Eintracht Frankfurt season opening at Deutsche Bank Park on August 05, 2023 in Frankfurt am Main, Germany. (Photo by Christian Kaspar-Bartke/Getty Images)

Paris Saint-Germain‘s Randal Kolo Muani is reportedly seeking an exit from the French capital, with his agent attempting to gauge Arsenal’s interest in a potential move.

According to L’Équipe, Kolo Muani’s situation at PSG has become increasingly difficult, with the forward struggling for playing time under coach Luis Enrique.

His dissatisfaction has grown, and his valuation, reportedly between €40m and €50m, makes him an intriguing option for clubs looking to strengthen in January.

Arsenal, who have used Kai Havertz as a makeshift striker, could benefit from adding depth and competition in the forward line, especially given Jesus’s ongoing struggles with form and recurring injuries.

Kolo Muani, with his ability to play as a central striker or operate from the flanks, might offer the versatility and goal-scoring prowess Arsenal need.

PARIS, FRANCE – OCTOBER 25: Randal Kolo Muani of Paris Saint-Germain looks on during the UEFA Champions League match between Paris Saint-Germain and AC Milan at Parc des Princes on October 25, 2023 in Paris, France. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)

The Gunners under Arteta have a track record of investing in players who are at a crossroads, and Kolo Muani could be another example if the right terms can be agreed.

Juventus and Borussia Dortmund have also been linked with Kolo Muani, but financial constraints make a deal challenging. For Arsenal, securing the 25-year-old could provide a boost as they look to solidify their attack for the remainder of the season.

Atletico Madrid’s interest in Gabriel Jesus and PSG’s openness to part ways with Kolo Muani may present an opportunity for Mikel Arteta to reshape his offensive options, potentially orchestrating a transfer merry-go-round that could benefit all parties involved.

As the January window approaches, it remains to be seen whether Arsenal will entertain Atletico’s advances for Gabriel Jesus or pursue Kolo Muani as a replacement.

One thing is certain—Arteta will need to carefully consider his options if the Gunners are to maintain their competitiveness both domestically and in Europe.