Mikel Arteta has finalised his transfer plans, with Gabriel Jesus set to remain at Arsenal and fight for his place. The Brazilian striker, who joined the club two years ago for £45 million, was linked with a move away this summer amid interest from Saudi Pro League clubs and the arrival of Kai Havertz. However, Arteta has confirmed he is happy with his forward options and will focus on improving current players.
Jesus started Arsenal's 2-0 opening-day win over Wolves, and Arteta praised his attitude and form. 'He looks really good. He looks really sharp. He has changed a lot of things over the summer,' Arteta said after Jesus scored in a pre-season friendly against Manchester United. 'He has come in top condition again. And when you have that baseline, other things can be built.'
Arteta emphasised his trust in Jesus, Havertz, and Leandro Trossard as attacking options. 'I have faith in [Havertz], we have faith in [Gabriel Jesus], Leandro [Trossard] has played in that position. So we have different qualities in there, and the best thing we can do is trust our players and try to improve them,' he told talkSPORT.
The decision means Arsenal will not pursue a new striker this summer, despite links to Viktor Gyokeres and Alexander Isak. Jesus, 27, reportedly turned down lucrative offers from Saudi Arabia to stay and compete for a starting role. His determination has now been rewarded by Arteta, who sees a player with 'a point to prove' after a challenging period.
