Arsenal star Gabriel Jesus offered dream transfer exit route as Mikel Arteta stance clear

Latest Arsenal transfer news as Gabriel Jesus emerges as the subject of shock transfer interest from outside of Europe

Palmeiras have made a surprise approach to sign Arsenal striker Gabriel Jesus, according to reports in Brazil.

Globo Esporte have reported that the Brazilian club contacted the Gunners in 'recent days' to discover details over Jesus' position. The forward has featured seven times for Mikel Arteta's team, starting just two, this season - playing just 19 minutes in the Premier League.

Jesus previously played for Palmeiras before moving to Manchester City in 2017 after scoring 29 goals in 83 games for the Brazilian side. However, it appears a possible return to South America is out of the window right now with Arsenal ruling out a switch.

The report from Brazil states that the 27-year-old remains an 'important' player for Arteta and Palmeiras' approach was swiftly rejected. It is said that Jesus continues to have a good relationship with his former club and there are beliefs that he will return at some point.

Jesus currently has a contract at the Emirates Stadium until 2027 after moving from City for £45million. He has scored 19 goals and registered another 15 assists in 76 appearances.

Despite hardly playing for Arsenal this season, Arteta has backed Jesus. "100 percent," when asked if the Brazilian could have a big impact when called upon.

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"One of the biggest things in this sport is mental toughness. Kai showed an unbelievable one [last season]. And when you are surrounded by people who love you, wanting to put in everything that they can to help you and make you better, and people are little bit patient as well, and you see that that person is so willing after everything he's doing.

"Gabi looks like he really wants it so that's the best start."

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