Barcelona are pursuing the 10 million transfer of Arsenal striker Gabriel Jesus as manager Hansi Flick defended Lamine Yamal ahead of facing Rayo Vallecano.
The Spanish club is stepping up efforts to recruit a new central forward before the transfer window closes. German coach Flick expressed contentment with his existing Barcelona squad, but confirmed that the club remains open to potential market opportunities to reinforce the roster.
Gabriel Jesus has emerged as a top candidate for Barcelona as they look to add a primary number nine. The 29-year-old Brazilian forward has seen his role decline at English Premier League club Arsenal, making him available for transfer.
The proposed transfer involves both clear advantages and significant questions for Barcelona. On one hand, Jesus is considered a high-quality attacker available for a relatively low fee of 10 million. On the other hand, he recorded just 988 minutes of action across all competitions for Arsenal last season after recovering from a serious knee injury.
A thorough medical examination will be the decisive factor in concluding the transfer. Barcelona officials will carefully evaluate the physical condition of the Brazilian international before finalizing the deal with Arsenal.
Flick addresses Yamal scrutiny
The transfer discussions coincide with preparation for Barcelona's upcoming match against Rayo Vallecano at Camp Nou. Speaking before the fixture, Flick addressed intense public and media scrutiny surrounding teenage winger Lamine Yamal, who recently turned 19 years old.
Flick laughed when asked about the young star, whose every emotion and reaction has drawn public debate. The manager noted that it is always positive when a player smiles, but added that not every day is identical and that he does not smile every day either.
Delivering a firm verdict on Yamal, Flick stated that nothing is wrong with the winger. He acknowledged widespread public concern about Yamal's state and progress, but insisted that the current situation must be understood in context.
Flick pointed out that Yamal competed in a World Cup after suffering a serious injury, followed by three weeks of summer vacation. The teenager then returned to pre-season training with Barcelona to prepare for the new domestic season.
While acknowledging that Yamal's first match back against Elche was not his finest performance, Flick said he was pleased that the winger could start working for the team. Flick explained that Yamal provides energy and generates scoring chances, describing those contributions as excellent.
Yamal returned to Barcelona's starting lineup in their subsequent match against Athletic Club, playing the full 90 minutes and demonstrating moments of top quality. Flick noted that completing the entire match was beneficial for Yamal, adding that the club has already witnessed his capabilities in high-level matches.
The Barcelona coach concluded that Yamal requires full backing from the club during his development. Flick affirmed that he intends to support the teenage attacker completely as the team moves forward into their upcoming fixtures.
Match ahead at Camp Nou
Barcelona now turn their attention to hosting Madrid club Rayo Vallecano in La Liga action at Camp Nou. The team aims to build momentum on the pitch while club directors continue negotiations to finalize the signing of Jesus.
