Arsenal Transfer News: Gabriel Jesus to Stay, Mikel Arteta to Prepare for Busy January Window
It has been a tough period in Arsenal's Premier League title challenge as the Gunners sit six points adrift of league leaders Liverpool, with the latter also having a game in hand. January's transfer window thus presents an opportunity that is extremely critical if Mikel Arteta and his men want to reclaim their momentum. Here is a look at some of the latest transfer news in Arsenal, featuring Gabriel Jesus and potentially forgotten man Marquinhos' possible return to the Gunners.
- Gabriel Jesus to Stay at Arsenal: Mikel Arteta Drops Hint
Despite a difficult season so far, Mikel Arteta has firmly stated that Gabriel Jesus will be staying at Arsenal beyond January. The Brazilian striker has found game time limited, starting only six matches this season and scoring just one goal—that against Preston in the Carabao Cup.
Arteta acknowledged Jesus’ struggles but emphasized his commitment to the team. He noted, “Like all strikers, they go on phases and moments and that gap is becoming big.” He also pointed out the difficulties caused by injuries and the lack of consistent starts, but assured fans that Jesus' attitude remains exemplary. Arteta is confident that with the right support, the striker will overcome this challenging period.
Despite rumors of a possible exit, Arteta ruled out any transfer for Jesus in January, underlining how important his role is at the club.
2. Arsenal Set to Be Active in the January Transfer Window
Arsenal may not be prioritizing a striker in January, but Arteta has confirmed that the Gunners will look to strengthen the squad. Given their faltering Premier League title challenge, the January window is a perfect opportunity for the club to reinforce areas that need improvement and give themselves a better chance of securing a top-four finish or challenging for the title.
Arteta said, "The window gives us an opportunity to strengthen the team if we feel that is needed, and we feel that we have the capacity to do that as well." The manager urged patience, explaining that the club would continue to assess the situation as it evolves week by week. Arsenal fans can expect the club to be one of the busiest in the Premier League during the upcoming transfer window.
- Forgotten Man Marquinhos Set for Return to Arsenal
One player who could be part of Arsenal's January plans is Marquinhos, set to return to the Emirates after his loan spell at Brazilian side Fluminense. The 20-year-old forward joined Fluminense in February 2023 with an option to buy, but his role at the club has diminished as the season has progressed.
With Fluminense's league campaign now over, Marquinhos has made it clear that his time in Brazil is over. Reflecting on his time there, he said, "A year of evolution and great personal and professional learning. It was an honor for me to wear this shirt, at Fluminense. Head on to the new challenges ahead!
Marquinhos’ return presents a key decision for Arteta and Arsenal’s management. While he showed promise earlier in his career, it remains to be seen whether he will be integrated back into the squad or sent out on another loan. Arsenal fans will be closely monitoring how the club handles the young forward’s situation.
Arsenal’s January Transfer Strategy: What’s Next?
With the January window coming up, Arsenal will look to do the business that will strengthen the squad for the second half of the season. While Gabriel Jesus is not going to feature in any transfer plans, Arteta will be on high alert to fill in the missing jigsaw pieces in the squad and strengthen it for a possible league assault and other fronts this term.
With Marquinhos set to return and the club keen for reinforcements, Arsenal's transfer activity will be one of the key storylines over the coming months. Expect an update as Arsenal seek to make their squad even more title-winning worthy.