“I don’t need Lamine Yamal but only that guy”: Arsenal’s coach Mikel Arteta block Lamine Yamal to Arsenal transfer, name the only player he really want Arsenal to sign in January
The second international break of the season is a period of reflection for many clubs, but for Arsenal, it’s a time to plan for the future.
Arsenal’s 2-0 win over West Ham on Saturday, October 4, moved Mikel Arteta’s side to the top of the Premier League after Chelsea beat Liverpool in the evening’s fixture.
The Gunners have come close to winning the title in recent seasons, with confidence growing that 2026 can finally be the year they end their hoodoo.
Currently, the North London giants hold a one-point advantage over Liverpool heading into the international break, and with Bukayo Saka returning from injury in form, a fascinating title battle is emerging.
Arsenal are open to offers for Gabriel Jesus
While Arsenal have made an excellent start to the season, Arteta is already thinking ahead to the January transfer window.
Unsurprisingly, after spending over £200million on new players during the summer, the Gunners aren’t expected to be active on the incoming front.
However, some players could leave the Emirates Stadium, and according to the Daily Mail, Gabriel Jesus is someone they’re willing to listen to offers for.
Isaan Khan wrote in his Q&A: “Though the situation around Gabriel Jesus is an intriguing one. The Brazilian forward has not featured since suffering an ACL injury against Manchester United in January and is edging towards full fitness for the New Year.
“It’s understood that the Gunners are open to offers for Jesus in January, with his contract expiring in the summer of 2027. Arsenal have much power in their frontline, and Kai Havertz still to return.”
Jesus, who Arteta once labelled ‘unique’ due to his striker profile, sees his contract expire in 2027 and is unlikely to play a long-term part in the Spaniard’s plans.
Jesus’s Arsenal record in numbers
Many Premier League players have suffered serious ACL injuries, and unfortunately, some never return to their previous form.
That being said, even before he was injured against Manchester United in January 2025, Jesus was showing signs of decline.
After scoring 11 goals in 26 Premier League appearances following his move from Manchester City in 2022/23, the Brazilian has only found the net another 15 times in all competitions.
Ultimately, injuries and a poor run of form have hampered the 28-year-old from progressing in North London, and now Viktor Gyokeres is the main man; it’s hard to see a way back for him.
