Barcelona bring in Jesus from Arsenal, loan out Casado

Barcelona have signed Brazilian forward Gabriel Jesus from Arsenal on a deal until 2029, after failing to secure Julian Alvarez from Atletico Madrid. The Catalan club confirmed the 29-year-old arrived in a statement, with Spanish media reporting they paid Arsenal around 10 million euros (US$11.5m). Jesus' arrival aims to bolster Barcelona's attack following the departures of Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres earlier in the summer.

Jesus expressed his appreciation for the opportunity, stating he had not been offended by being Barca's plan B after Alvarez. He highlighted that now, 10 years later, he can be part of the Catalan giants, fulfilling a long-held dream. The Spanish champions were ready to end the transfer window without adding another striker, with winger Raphinha scoring five goals in three games himself, but ultimately decided to bring in Jesus.

Hansi Flick, Barcelona's interim manager, praised Jesus' style of play, stating he fits with their system and believes Jesus can make a significant impact for the team. Jesus himself acknowledged the challenges he faced in the previous two years, particularly his serious knee injury, but confirmed he has since recovered and is ready to give his best for Barcelona. The knee issue no longer poses a problem, and he is physically fit for the new challenge.

This marks Barcelona's seventh signing of the summer transfer window, following Anthony Gordon, Karim Adeyemi, Jesse Bisiwu, Joao Cancelo, Rodri, and Dominik Livakovic. Moreover, midfielder Marc Casado has been loaned out to Deportivo La Coruna until the end of the season.