Mikel Arteta hits back at reports claiming Arsenal will sell Gabriel Jesus during January transfer window

Jesus is enduring a difficult spell at Arsenal after slipping down the pecking order. He has predominantly been used as a substitute so far this season by Arteta and has only made two Premier League starts. Jesus is yet to score a goal in the English top flight in 12 outings in total and has been linked with an exit in January.

Kai Havertz has emerged as Arteta's preferred option in attack, while the Gunners have also been linked with a move for Newcastle striker Alexander Isak. Jesus looks as though he will face a tough challenge forcing his way back into the starting XI, but Arteta has denied he's looking to sell the Brazilian.

"No, no sense," Arteta told a press conference when asked about reports Arsenal could sell Jesus. "Like all strikers, they go on phases and moments and that gap is becoming big. It’s true that obviously a lot of things has happened, injuries, absences of not playing or starting games that much. But his attitude has been really good, it always is, and we’re going to try to help him overcome the situation as soon as possible."

Jesus' only Arsenal goal so far this season came in Arsenal's 3-0 Carabao Cup win over Preston in October.

Jesus is contracted to Arsenal until 2027 but may well look for a move if he continues to struggle for minutes, particularly after also losing his place in the Brazil national team. Meanwhile, the Brazilian will be hoping for minutes on Wednesday when Arsenal take on Monaco in the Champions League after making four appearances in the competition so far this term for the Gunners.