Barcelona has finalized the signing of Brazilian striker Gabriel Jesus from Arsenal, in one of the club's most prominent deals during the current transfer window, after successfully acquiring him for just 10 million euros, amid the club's conviction that the player represents a market opportunity that is difficult to pass up.
According to the Spanish newspaper "Sport," Jesus was not part of Mikel Arteta's plans for the current season, coinciding with only one year remaining on his contract with Arsenal, which prompted the player and the English club to seek a new destination, before Barcelona stepped in and finalized the deal at the end of the week.
Jesus, who is 29 years old, arrived in Barcelona after recovering from a severe knee injury that kept him out of the game for approximately 11 months since 2025, but he personally confirmed that his physical condition has become good, stating upon his arrival at El Prat airport that "the knee is perfect," before successfully passing the medical examinations.
Barcelona had initially agreed with the player on a two-year contract, with the option to extend for a third year based on specific conditions and objectives, but the club ultimately decided to modify the agreement and grant him a fixed three-year contract.
The decision reflects Barcelona's confidence in Jesus's ability to regain his best form, especially as the club sees him as a significant addition to the attacking line, which had lacked a consistent backup in the central striker position, aside from the young Egyptian striker Hamza Abdel Karim, with the possibility of utilizing Raphinha in this role.
Jesus is expected to receive the number 9 shirt previously worn by Polish player Robert Lewandowski, marking the beginning of a new chapter in his career at Barcelona, where he will be required to quickly prove his readiness during upcoming training sessions.
The club does not rule out the possibility of the Brazilian striker being included in the team's lineup for the match against Valencia on Sunday, but the technical staff does not want to rush his debut, particularly given the player's long absence.
