Mikel Arteta has been handed some brutal transfer advice from an unlikely source as Arsenal prepare for a crucial summer window. The Gunners boss is being urged to make some ruthless decisions if his side are to finally overcome Manchester City in the Premier League title race.
Former Tottenham defender Alan Hutton has delivered a stark assessment of Arsenal's current squad, specifically targeting Brazilian forward Gabriel Jesus. The pundit didn't mince his words when analysing the 27-year-old's contribution this season.
'He's Not Good Enough' - Hutton's Blunt Verdict
Speaking to Football Insider, Hutton was unequivocal in his criticism of Jesus: "I think he's not good enough. I've said it before. When you look at the levels that Arsenal want to get to, they need a top-level striker who's going to score 20-25 goals a season."
The former Scotland international highlighted the gap between Jesus and the Premier League's elite forwards: "I don't think he's at that level. He's a good footballer, we know that, he can link play - but in terms of being an out-and-out goalscorer, I don't think he's that."
Summer Clear-Out Needed for Title Push
Hutton believes Arteta needs to be merciless in his approach to squad building this summer. "I think there's going to be a big turnover of players," he predicted. "Arteta has to be brutal if he wants to get to that next level and compete with Manchester City."
The assessment comes despite Jesus having a respectable return of 13 goals in 41 appearances across all competitions this season. However, with just four Premier League goals to his name, questions remain about his efficiency in front of goal.
Striker Search Intensifies
Arsenal have been heavily linked with several high-profile strikers in recent months, including:
- Victor Osimhen from Napoli
- Ivan Toney from Brentford
- Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig
Hutton's comments will only fuel speculation that Arteta is preparing to invest heavily in a new centre-forward this summer, potentially at the expense of Jesus.
The Brazilian joined Arsenal from Manchester City in a £45 million deal in 2022 and has shown flashes of brilliance, but consistency and goal output remain concerns for a team with title aspirations.
