Gabriel Jesus wants to stay at Arsenal and chase Brazilian Premier League scoring record

Gabriel Jesus has made clear he wants to remain at Arsenal and honour the final year of his contract, brushing aside transfer interest from clubs in Italy, Spain, and his native Brazil. The 29-year-old striker spoke publicly about his future after scoring in Arsenal’s Premier League win at Crystal Palace, telling ESPN Brazil he is focused on proving himself at the highest level.

“I still have a year left on my contract with Arsenal. I want to play, I want to prove to myself that I can play at a high level,” Jesus said. “Today [against Palace], I could have scored two or three more goals. This shows me that I’m still a player who can perform at a high level even with such a serious injury.”

Jesus, who joined Arsenal from Manchester City in 2022 having first moved to England in 2017, has seen his playing time restricted this season. His contract situation — with just one year remaining — has attracted attention from clubs across Europe and South America, but sources indicate he is in no mood to force an exit.

A significant personal milestone is also shaping his thinking. Jesus currently sits on 79 Premier League goals, three short of the 82 scored by fellow Brazilian Roberto Firmino, who has since retired from the English top flight. Another full season in north London would give him a realistic chance of becoming the highest-scoring Brazilian in Premier League history.

The prospect of receiving British citizenship this year is an additional factor keeping Jesus settled in England, according to reports.

Arsenal are expected to reshape their attacking options this summer, with Jesus and Kai Havertz potentially competing alongside Viktor Gyokeres for a starting role. Whether the club choose to cash in on Jesus while they still can, or allow him to run down his deal, remains one of the key decisions of their off-season.

Jesus acknowledged the uncertainty around his situation but insisted his mentality remains strong. “It’s not easy mentally, but I was resilient and respected the coach,” he said. “The future belongs to God. I have my head in the right place, I think every day about how to keep my head in the right place, train hard and stay focused.”