Arsenal have leapfrogged Barcelona in the race to sign an in-demand LaLiga striker, who could replace a Gunners star that Mikel Arteta ‘wants out’, Teamtalk reports.

The Gunners are understood to be happy with their squad as they fight for the Premier League title but additions could be made in January if they make sales.

One star who has been the subject of speculation recently is striker Gabriel Jesus, who is yet to make an appearance this season after he suffered a serious knee injury.

The 28-year-old is on the road to recovery and said in a recent interview that it ‘wouldn’t make sense’ to leave Arsenal now, though he admitted that he dreams of a return to Brazilian side Palmeiras one day.

According to a new report from Spanish outlet Fichajes, Arteta wants Jesus ‘out’, which ‘opens the door’ for a romantic Palmeiras switch in the January transfer window.

Fichajes isn’t the most reliable of outlets, so the claims must be taken with a pinch of salt, especially as Arteta always speaks highly of Jesus, despite his injury woes.

But what makes the situation interesting is Arsenal’s links with Levante striker Karl Etta Eyong. Jesus could potentially leave to make room for the talented 22-year-old.

Etta Eyong is having a breakthrough season for Levante, notching five goals and an assist in nine LaLiga appearances so far this term.

The Cameroonian international’s performances have caught the attention of top sides recently.

Spanish outlet Sport – who are considered more reliable than Fichajes – claim that Barcelona have seen an ‘offer rejected’ for Etta Eyong.

Arsenal are said to be the ‘most interested’ in the youngster, per Sport’s report, as cited by Football365.

However, it is claimed that the plan would be for Arsenal to sign Etta Eyong in January before loaning him back to Levante for the rest of the season.

It’s therefore unclear whether Arsenal would let Jesus go this winter, if that happens.