Arsenal have stepped up their pursuit of Botafogo’s rising star Igor Jesus, with the striker’s agent reportedly landing in the UK to hold transfer talks ahead of the summer window, according to ge.globo.
Igor Jesus Could Be the Striker Arsenal Are Looking For
The 24-year-old Brazilian forward has been in fine form this season, catching the attention of several Premier League clubs, but it’s Arsenal who appear to be leading the race for his signature.
Mikel Arteta is expected to make a move for a new striker this summer, with Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz both struggling with injuries and inconsistency throughout the 2024/25 season.
After finishing second in the Premier League for a third straight year and falling short in the Champions League semi-finals, there’s growing pressure to turn near-misses into silverware.
Reinforcements are crucial—and Igor Jesus could be a key piece of the puzzle.
Jesus, described as a “fast” and intelligent striker, played a vital role in helping Botafogo clinch both the Serie A and Copa Libertadores titles in 2024.
His stats back up the hype—he scored 8 goals and provided 4 assists in 31 league appearances, while netting 4 goals with 2 assists in 10 Copa Libertadores matches.
Arsenal reportedly attempted to sign the striker in January for just under £25 million, but Jesus declined the move in favour of playing in the Club World Cup this June.
Now, with that ambition soon to be fulfilled, the timing may be perfect for Arsenal to reignite negotiations—although they may have to pay more than their initial bid.
Fulham and Nottingham Forest have also shown interest, but Jesus is said to be keen on a Premier League move, and the Gunners’ stature and Champions League status give them a clear edge.
The striker “understands that he cannot waste an opportunity to play in the Premier League,” according to reports.
At just 24, Jesus has the potential to lead Arsenal’s frontline for years to come.
If Arteta and Edu can strike the right deal, Arsenal could soon have one of South America’s brightest attacking talents at the Emirates.
