Club confirms that striker Edu wanted to sign at Arsenal has received Premier League interest

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Arsenal are still coming to terms with the sudden departure of sporting director Edu Gaspar.

The Brazilian resigned from his position in early November, shocking many associated with the club, including Mikel Arteta. 

Arteta opened up about Edu’s departure, admitting that things happened very quickly, with the former Gunners midfielder set to take on a new role with Evangelos Marinakis.

Change is happening behind the scenes at the Emirates, with the one wish from supporters being that star talent can continue to be acquired.

• READ MORE: Five of the best and worst Edu signings at Arsenal as sporting director confirms exit

Arsenal transfer news: Igor Jesus admired by Edu

Edu delivered some sensational talents to North London, including the likes of William Saliba and club captain Martin Odegaard. 

The sporting director had a good run at the helm with Arteta however, times are changing and Arsenal will have to adapt to life without the Brazilian. 

Prior to his swift exit, there were several names linked to the Gunners due to Edu’s research, one of which being striker Igor Jesus. 

Arsenal and Chelsea are interested in Jesus, who is in top form for Botafogo after returning to his homeland from the Middle East.

While the two London clubs have been credited with interest, it’s not only the duo who are eager to sign the striker, as Botafogo owner John Textor recently explained.

“Yes, I spoke to West Ham [about Igor Jesus], but I spoke to four other Premier League teams, two LALIGA teams, a German team,” Textor said, via ESPN. 

The Crystal Palace co-owner went on to express that despite interest from England, the forward’s mind is firmly on Botafogo at present.

“I told everyone that he is focused on the Brazilian Championship,” Textor added.

Should Arsenal sign Jesus?

While Textor’s update is interesting, there’s no confirmation that Arsenal remain as one of the sides tracking the striker.

Jesus could be a smart capture given the cost-effective and high-reward signings on offer in the Brazilian market, with the forward being exactly what the Gunners require. 

• READ MORE: Edu’s five-man 2025 striker transfer shortlist includes two players who have already rejected Arsenal

Upon returning to his homeland, the 23-year-old has had a superb impact on Botafogo, contributing to 11 goals in 23 appearances.

A goalscorer with a budding talent and undeniable South American flair could be a triumph for Arsenal but, it seems as though Arteta and co will have to see off plenty of competition to sign Jesus.