AC Milan is reportedly intensifying its pursuit of Arsenal striker Gabriel Jesus for the upcoming 2026-27 season, marking a renewed effort to acquire the player after previous attempts. This interest comes as Gabriel Jesus's playing time at Arsenal has diminished, with only 25 competitive appearances and five goals recorded this past season. The Italian club, as per Sky Sport Italia's Gianluca Di Marzio, has identified Jesus as a key target for their transfer strategy.
The interest from Milan isn't entirely new. Reports from December 2025 indicate that Gabriel Jesus's representatives had offered the player to Milan, with a loan deal considered a possibility. At that time, the Rossoneri were evaluating the situation but held reservations concerning the player's physical condition. This cautious approach was reiterated by Tuttosport, which stated Milan had "declined the possibility of signing him, as they are not fully convinced about his physical condition."
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Tactical Fit and Player Motivation
The prospect of a move to Italy appears to be driven by several factors, including a potential shift in tactical approach. One report from sportsboom.co.uk suggests that Italy's "more controlled and tactical game" might be a better fit for Jesus's "worn-out physique," especially considering his history of "chronic knee injuries." This perspective aligns with Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta's evolution towards a "physically more dominant center-forward profile."
For Gabriel Jesus, a move could represent an opportunity to revive his career. Concerns about his diminishing role at Arsenal, exacerbated by the arrival of new signings like Viktor Gyökeres and Eberechi Eze, have surfaced. A transfer to Milan could offer him "centre stage in the attack," a chance to "rediscover his scoring touch," and potentially earn a spot in the Brazil national team, possibly impressing Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti.
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Financial Considerations and Past Interest
Despite the reported interest and potential fit, financial aspects remain a hurdle. Caughtoffside noted in December 2025 that Milan's "limited transfer budget and the Brazilian’s high wages" presented significant challenges to a potential move.
Milan's pursuit of a new striker has been a recurring theme, with Jesus appearing on their radar since at least October 2025. At that time, Milan Live reported that the Rossoneri were "actively monitoring the situation" and prepared to make a move in the January transfer window. This was alongside other rumored targets such as Niclas Füllkrug, with Milan reportedly seeing Füllkrug as a potential alternative to Joshua Zirkzee.
Background
Gabriel Jesus joined Arsenal from Manchester City in the summer of 2022. His tenure at the Emirates has been marked by flashes of brilliance, particularly his contributions in his debut season, but has also been plagued by injuries, most notably a cruciate ligament injury that kept him sidelined for an extended period. This history of physical issues has been a consistent point of discussion surrounding his future. Milan, under manager Massimiliano Allegri, has faced challenges with "attacking consistency," particularly in crucial matches, underscoring their need for offensive reinforcements.
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