Igor Jesus transfer: Arsenal eyeing Botafogo striker

Arsenal are said to be assessing their options in advance of the January transfer window, with a new surprise name among their three main targets.

In addition to familiar faces like Benjamin Sisko and Evan Ferguson, there's also a mention from transfer journalist Ben Jacobs from The Gunners are eyeing Botafogo striker Igor Jesus.

The 23-year-old is not a particularly big name, and has yet to test himself at a particularly high level in his career so far.

“Talks around the move have progressed well and there is confidence that a deal will go through” – Which big name is close to joining Arsenal?

However, Arsenal seem to be eyeing him As a potential option to give them more depth in attack after injuries to Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus.

See below for Jacobs' post on X about the Arsenal striker's goals…

Arsenal evaluates striker options for January.

Strong interest in Benjamin Sisco but potentially a summer saga.

Ivan Ferguson is interested if Brighton agrees to an exit but Arsenal must buy or bring back Neto. Raheem Sterling's January loan has no release clause.

Botafogo… pic.twitter.com/6KEZXhDTPx

– Ben Jacobs (@JacobsBen) January 20, 2025

Jesus may not be an absolute top priority for Arsenal, as one imagines Cisco would be the ideal target if a deal is realistic to be reached next January.

Ferguson seems a bit of a risky option after his recent struggles at Brighton, but Jesus is an unknown.

Given that he has only played in Brazil and the United Arab Emirates during his career so far, it is very difficult to know how well he will be able to adapt to the demands of playing for one of the top clubs in the Premier League and Champions League.

Who should Arsenal sign up front in January?

Arsenal fans will have their own ideas about who will be the best striker this winter, but of course the club needs to be realistic.

It's never easy to get the players they want midway through the season, so they have to assess whether they need someone, or indeed anyone, to come in now, or whether it's worth waiting for better options in the summer.

Jesus may be more realistically available this month, but it's hard to imagine the Brazilian being a better option than Cisco, who is certainly worth waiting until the summer.