Barcelona boss Hansi Flick surprised by late Gabriel Jesus deal with Arsenal

Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick has welcomed the “surprise” arrival of Gabriel Jesus from Arsenal after the Brazil forward agreed a two-year contract with the Spanish club.

The 29-year-old travelled to Catalonia on Monday to complete the move and was at Camp Nou that evening to watch his new team-mates beat Rayo Vallecano 5-2.

That victory preserved Barcelona’s perfect start to the Liga season, with three wins from three matches. Jesus is expected to be officially presented by the club on Tuesday as Barcelona’s sixth major signing of the summer.

Flick admitted he had not expected Arsenal to allow the forward to leave so late in the transfer window, but said he was delighted to have secured a player whose qualities suit Barcelona’s approach.

“I was a little surprised we had the opportunity to get him,” Flick told reporters.

“I really love him, I like his style to play football, it fits with our style. I think he can help us a lot in the games.”

Jesus joins a Barcelona squad that has undergone significant strengthening during the summer. Sporting director Deco has already completed deals for Anthony Gordon, Karim Adeyemi, Rodri, Joao Cancelo and Dominik Livakovic.

The latest addition earned particular praise from Flick, who credited Deco with delivering another important piece of transfer business.

“For us, he can be an important player, so thanks to Deco because again he made an excellent job,” he said.

Barcelona had also considered a move for Julian Alvarez as they looked to add further attacking options. However, Atletico Madrid were unwilling to negotiate with their domestic rivals, preventing a deal from taking place.

Jesus now becomes part of an already established Barcelona forward line and will be looking to make an immediate impression under Flick.

The Brazilian has previously played for Palmeiras, Manchester City and Arsenal. At Barcelona, he will compete for a place in an attack that has helped the club make an ideal start to the campaign.

Barcelona’s next match is away to Valencia at the Mestalla on Sunday. Flick’s side will attempt to maintain their unbeaten record and continue their perfect run in the Liga, while Jesus waits for the opportunity to make his competitive debut for his new club.