Arsenal’s transfer plans have been derailed after Gabriel Jesus’s ACL injury eliminated his potential summer sale, complicating their striker transfer budget strategy.
Arsenal’s plans for the summer transfer window have been disrupted by the long-term injury to Gabriel Jesus, who was expected to be sold to fund incoming signings accordingf to Gary Jacob’s in Saturday’s edition of The Times.
The Brazilian forward suffered a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his left knee during the FA Cup clash against Manchester United last weekend and is now set to miss up to nine months of action.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta confirmed the financial impact of the injury, explaining that Jesus’ unavailability has complicated transfer plans. “A player injured has no value, he cannot perform,” Arteta said. “On top of that, you have to add somebody else. It’s not easy.”
The Gunners had anticipated moving Jesus on to secure funds for new signings, including reinforcements for the attack.
With Benjamin Sesko of RB Leipzig among their long-term targets, Arsenal now face significant challenges in navigating the January and summer markets. Leipzig reportedly value Sesko at £60 million, but Arteta admitted resources are “limited” and that any spending this month could restrict summer options.
Jesus’ ACL injury, coupled with setbacks to other key players like Bukayo Saka, has left Arsenal struggling for attacking potency. Arteta’s reliance on Kai Havertz has also been under scrutiny, further emphasising the need for a reliable striker.
However, the injury has derailed Arsenal’s ability to use Jesus as a financial asset to address these problems.
The Gunners now face a dilemma: either stretch their current budget to make an immediate signing or risk waiting until summer which could mean sacrificing their league title ambitions. Arsenal’s hopes of completing a major striker deal, such as one for Sesko, will hinge on finding alternative solutions to fill the gap in their transfer budget.