Mikel Arteta drops transfer hint on £45m Arsenal signing amid struggles for form ahead of January window

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has dropped a transfer hint on striker Gabriel Jesus who has been struggling for form this season.

The Brazil international has made 12 Premier League appearances for Arsenal this season, starting just one game and is yet to score this season.

Due to his poor form, Arteta has preferred to play Kai Havertz up front who has scored five goals in 14 Premier League matches, an improvement on Jesus’ poor form.

The Gunners’ boss has dropped a hint suggesting that he won’t sell Jesus in the January transfer window, despite reports suggesting they could cash in on the £45m striker.

He said, to the Mirror: “It’s true that obviously a lot of things has happened, injuries, absences of not playing or starting games that much but his attitude has been really good, it always is, and we’re going to try to help him overcome the situation as soon as possible.

“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. We are on it and just have to assess the situation because it is changing every week. I’m positive that in a few weeks we’re going to be in a better place."

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The Gunners have been linked to several top strikers in the January transfer window, as they aim to pursue Liverpool and Chelsea in the Premier League title race. Jesus could be made available if the Gunners do decide to sign a striker.

They have been linked to Newcastle United attacker Alexander Isak who is yet to sign a new contract at St. James’ Park. Isak is expected to be priced at around £115m by the Magpies, who aren’t keen to sell him in January.

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Furthermore, reports have suggested that the Gunners could make a move for Viktor Gyokeres, who they have been linked to since the start of last summer’s transfer window. He has impressed for Sporting CP this season, scoring 25 goals in 23 matches.

More recently, the Gunners have also been linked to Bologna striker Santiago Castro, who could cost around £33m. Aston Villa, Chelsea, and West Ham are also keen to land him however, which could drive the price tag higher.