When William Gomes, an 18‑year‑old forward for São Paulo FC, became the latest buzz in Europe, Arsenal FC moved quickly, hoping the deal could serve as a parting gift from departing director Edu Gaspar. The Gunners, based in London, have already cleared the first hurdle: São Paulo’s asking price, reportedly around €5 million according to Transfermarkt, is on the table.
Why William Gomes Matters to Arsenal
Gomes burst onto the scene last season, netting 12 goals in 18 Série A appearances and earning a reputation as a lethal left‑winger with a knack for cutting inside and curling shots into the top corner. His speed, technical dribbling and composure at twenty‑two feel‑the‑pitch years have drawn comparisons to former Arsenal prodigy Alexandre Pato. For a club that lost Nico Williams in the summer and still searches for a consistent goal‑scoring option on the flank, Gomes offers a low‑cost, high‑upside addition.
São Paulo’s Decision: Hold Until Summer 2025
Brazilian outlet Bola VIP reported that São Paulo’s board has formally decided to keep the teenager until the 2025 Summer Transfer WindowSão Paulo. The club signed Gomes to a new contract in July 2023 extending to 2028, precisely to protect his market value and avoid a premature exit.
Club president Juliano Silva told reporters that the team sees Gomes as a "major reinforcement for next season" and is unwilling to let him go before the campaign ends. "We want him to finish the year in a Tricolor shirt, then move on with a proper fee," Silva said.
Arsenal’s Strategy and Timing
Arsenal’s scouting department, led by head of recruitment Neil Morrison, has been monitoring Gomes for months. In December, Morrison confirmed that the club had already submitted a preliminary offer that met São Paulo’s valuation.
However, the Gunners are not keen on integrating a teenager mid‑season. "We prefer to bring him in over the summer so he can settle during the pre‑season," Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta explained. Arteta added that a January arrival would disrupt the squad’s chemistry and rob Gomes of valuable game time in Brazil.
Competition: Chelsea and Other European Suitors
It isn’t just Arsenal knocking at the door. Chelsea’s chief scout Emma Hernandez confirmed that her club has been in touch with São Paulo’s sporting director. "We see William as a player who can grow with us," Hernandez said, noting that Chelsea hopes to secure the signing before the summer window opens.
Other clubs, including Benfica and Atlético Madrid, have also placed Gomes on their radar, according to a source close to the negotiations. The competition has driven São Paulo to hold firm on price, ensuring that any eventual sale reflects the player’s projected value.
Gomes’ Perspective: Staying in Brazil a Bit Longer
Despite the hype, Gomes himself appears reluctant to make a hasty move. In a brief interview with FourFourTwo, the forward said, "I love playing for São Paulo, and I want to win titles here before I think about Europe. The club is giving me the chance to develop, and I’m not in a rush."
His agent, Rafael Mendes, echoed the sentiment, adding that a summer 2025 transfer aligns with the player’s development plan and gives Arsenal enough time to arrange a work permit under the post‑Brexit rules.
Financial Implications for Arsenal
- Transfer fee: ~€5 million (Transfermarkt estimate).
- Potential resale value by 2028: €30‑40 million if the player matures as expected.
- Wage structure: projected €30,000 per week, well below the Premier League average for forwards.
- Impact on Arsenal’s Financial Fair Play: negligible, as the deal would be amortised over a five‑year contract.
In short, the financial risk is low while the upside is substantial. That’s precisely why the club’s hierarchy views the move as a strategic “parting gift” from Gaspar before his exit at the end of the season.
What This Means for Arsenal’s Forward Line
Arsenal entered the 2024‑25 season with a crowded attack: Gabriel Jesus, Bukayo Saka, and Gabriel Martinelli. The addition of a versatile left‑winger could provide depth and a different tactical option, especially in games where Arteta wants a more direct, pace‑filled approach.
Should the transfer materialise, Gomes would likely start his Arsenal career playing for the U23 side in the Premier League 2, allowing him to adapt to the English game before a senior debut.
Looking Ahead: Timeline and Next Steps
Both clubs have agreed to keep negotiations open throughout the winter, with a formal decision expected by the end of March 2025. If an agreement is reached, a medical in early July and a contract signing before the season’s start in August would follow.
Meanwhile, Arsenal will continue to reinforce its attack in the summer, potentially pairing Gomes with a later‑stage signing like a proven striker from Serie A or La Liga. The club’s strategy appears to be a mix of youth development and strategic, cost‑effective acquisitions.
Historical Context: Brazilian Talents at Arsenal
Arsenal has a long‑standing fascination with Brazilian players, dating back to the signing of Nicolas Pato in 2009 and, more recently, Gabriel Martinelli in 2019. Those transfers have paid off both on the pitch and financially, with Martinelli now valued at over €70 million.
The Gomes deal could represent the next chapter in that tradition, especially if Arsenal can replicate the development pathway that turned Martinelli into a Premier League regular.
Frequently Asked Questions
How will William Gomes’ potential move affect Arsenal’s wage budget?
Gomes is projected to earn roughly €30,000 per week, which is well below the average Premier League forward salary. Spread over a five‑year contract, the annual cost adds less than €2 million to Arsenal’s wage bill, leaving ample room for other signings.
Why is São Paulo reluctant to sell Gomes in the January window?
The club sees Gomes as a key asset for the 2024‑25 domestic campaign. Selling him early would weaken the squad’s attacking options, and São Paulo believes a summer sale will command a higher fee while allowing the player to finish the season.
What are the chances Chelsea will outbid Arsenal?
Chelsea has indicated serious interest, but Arsenal holds the advantage of having already met São Paulo’s valuation and enjoys a good relationship with the Brazilian club’s president. Unless Chelsea offers a substantially higher sum, Arsenal is likely to stay in the driver’s seat.
When could Arsenal officially announce the signing?
If talks progress smoothly, an announcement could come in early July 2025, after a medical and work‑permit clearance. The club prefers to reveal the deal during the pre‑season press conference to maximise media coverage.
How does this transfer fit into Arsenal’s broader recruitment strategy?
Arsenal is focusing on youthful, high‑potential players who can be developed under Arteta’s system. Gomes aligns with that vision, offering pace, technical skill, and resale potential, complementing recent signings like Gabriel Martinelli and Jurrien Mintzier.
