Everton-linked striker Gabriel Jesus makes clear statement over his Arsenal future amid transfer speculation

A striker linked with a move to Everton has spoken out on his future.

The Toffees sit 13th in the Premier League, having picked up 15 points in 11 matches following a 2-0 win over Fulham last time out.

However, an early struggle for Everton has been the centre-forward position. Beto and Thierno Barry have scored just one top-flight goal between them so far this campaign. With the January transfer window now less than two months away, it’s an opportunity for Everton to potentially strengthen.

While there is a dearth of strikers on the market, it has been suggested that Gabriel Jesus is on Everton’s radar, with West Ham also said to be keen. The Arsenal marksman is on the cusp of returning from a long-term knee injury. However, with the Gunners signing Viktor Gyokeres in the summer, as well as Kai Havertz closing in on a return to full fitness, Jesus may find himself down the pecking order at the Premier League leaders.

What’s been said

However, the Brazil international insists that he is not contemplating his future away from Arsenal. In fact, ht has claimed that he does not see himself ‘outside the club’s plans’ as the Gunners aim to win their first English championship since 2004. In a recent interview with Placar Magazine, Jesus said: ”My main focus is to come back and come back well,” Jesus said. “Every day, the coach and the board tell me they’re looking forward to my return. I don’t see myself outside the club’s plans. I have a contract until 2027, and that’s where I’ll be.”

Everton purchased Barry for a fee of up to £27 million from Villarreal in the summer transfer window. Although he scored 11 goals in La Liga last season, the Blues regarded the former France under-21 international as someone who needed time to adapt to the challenges of the Premier League.

Barry has started Everton’s past two games, though. While he spurned a golden chance in a 1-1 draw at Sunderland, the 23-year-old delivered his best performance for the club against Fulham. He was given a standing ovation when substituted.

Despite Barry being yet to score for Everton, Moyes heaped praise on the fans inside Hill Dickinson Stadium for the support they showed. “I think it is great credit because all the Evertonians know both players are looking for confidence and support.

“I thought the crowd were brilliant for Barry today but I think he gave them something to shout about and believe in and was rightly applauded coming off. We need those boys to keep their confidence up and when you are not scoring as a centre-forward it’s not an easy thing to do.”

Moyes on Everton’s January plans

Moyes has admitted that he is hopeful Everton can strengthen in the upcoming window, though. The Toffees manager said: “We didn’t bring anybody in last January except for Charly Alcaraz on loan, so we didn’t any players brought in during January.

“I would think we’d be out there, trying to be busy – I see the pens writing there – but that doesn’t mean I’m going to be busy. We’re in a much better position financially with the new owners and they’ll certainly back us with a certain amount of money. So, we’ll be looking around to what could help if possible.”