FC Barcelona has never shied away from a fantastic market opportunity that has come their way. The Blaugranes, more than ever, prefer to rely on out-of-favor players, free agents, and promising young players.
Given their financial constraints, Barcelona would be foolish to pursue the greatest stars alongside the top bidders in Europe.
Despite this, the Catalan giants continue to stay vigilant in order to capitalize on good opportunities. One such opportunity was available in the summer of last season when a particular Brazilian star was unwanted by his club and looking for a way out.
Barcelona and Madrid collide
According to Diario AS, current Arsenal forward Gabriel Jesus was on the agenda of both Real Madrid and FC Barcelona. The El Clasico giants were quite attentive to his situation last season after a falling out with Manchester City.
Following the arrival of Norwegian superstar Erling Haaland, Gabriel Jesus was seen as a backup within Pep Guardiola’s side. Moreover, as he himself revealed, certain tactical changes showcased to him that he was no longer going to be an important piece for Guardiola at City.
Off to London
Listed to be transferred, Barcelona and Real Madrid both kept tabs on his development. However, it would ultimately be the London-based club Arsenal that took him away.
The Gunners guaranteed him Premier League football, a better financial package, and possibly the chance to face off against his former employers.
Champions League joy
As it stands, the 26-year-old striker is enjoying life with the English side. Scoring for fun in the UEFA Champions League this season, he already has three goals in three consecutive games.
Moreover, he continues to provide guaranteed performances to Mikel Arteta, who severely missed his presence in the final half of last season when he got injured.
While the player was benched in favor of Haaland, he remains among the elites of Europe. In terms of numbers, he currently has 4 goals and 1 assist in 11 appearances this season.
In the previous 2022/23 season, he had 11 goals and 8 assists in 33 appearances for Arsenal. The report suggests that Barcelona and Real Madrid still continue to keep tabs on him. However, it will have to be seen if that interest ultimately ever amounts to anything in the near future.