Rumours linking Gabriel Jesus with a return to Brazil have been firmly dismissed, with Arsenal sources and respected transfer journalists making it clear no agreement has been reached with Flamengo.
Reports in Brazil suggested Arsenal were in advanced negotiations over a loan deal with the Rio de Janeiro club, potentially including an obligation to buy.
Those stories claimed Jesus had approved the switch and that Arsenal were willing to split his wages with Flamengo. Betting markets even reacted to the rumours, prompting responsible gaming reminders to approach unverified transfer speculation with caution.
Brazilian journalist Jorge Nicola suggested Flamengo had stepped ahead of Palmeiras, Jesus’s former club, and were preparing a formal offer to secure the striker’s services until 2026.
However, trusted sources quickly moved to dampen expectations. Fabrizio Romano stated, “No talks ongoing between Flamengo and Arsenal for Gabriel Jesus at this stage, despite reports.”
Arsenal-focused outlets also confirmed there were no active negotiations, despite wider media reporting.
The timing of the reports coincided with Arsenal reshaping their attack following the arrival of Viktor Gyökeres from Sporting CP. Some speculated Jesus could fall down the pecking order, particularly after missing the latter half of last season with an ACL injury. Yet Arsenal reportedly view Jesus as a key figure who can play across the front line, providing experience and versatility.
From the player’s perspective, a return to Brazil might have made sense given his desire to regain regular minutes ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Consistent game time at Flamengo could have boosted his hopes of reclaiming a starting role under Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti. But Arsenal are not inclined to sanction a move that would see them subsidising his wages while losing one of their most experienced forwards.
The 28-year-old is expected to complete his rehabilitation and fight for his place at Arsenal during the 2025/26 campaign. He remains under contract until 2027 and has made no public indication of wanting to leave.
While Flamengo continue to look for attacking reinforcements, any move for Jesus now appears highly unlikely, at least in the current transfer window. For Arsenal, the focus is on integrating Gyökeres and building attacking depth rather than weakening their options.
In short, speculation around Jesus’s immediate departure has been exaggerated. Arsenal supporters should expect to see him at the Emirates this season, fully fit and pushing to re-establish himself in Mikel Arteta’s plans.