Gabriel Jesus may travel with Arsenal squad as the Gunners face Sporting Lisbon in the Europa League

Gabriel Jesus is reportedly in contention to travel with the Arsenal squad to Lisbon as the Brazilian forward closes in on a return following three months on the sidelines.

Jesus has been absent for the Gunners since undergoing surgery on a knee injury sustained at the World Cup in Brazil.

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta revealed last week the star was edging closer to a return.

The Brazilian forward had been pictured training at the club’s London Colney base.

According to the Sun, Jesus may be included in Arsenal’s travelling party for Thursday’s Europa League tie against Sporting Lisbon.

Gabriel Jesus was pictured in Arsenal training last week as the forward closes on a return

Jesus could travel to Lisbon to continue training with the Arsenal squad as he nears a return

The last-16 tie is expected to come too soon for Jesus to make his return, but he would reportedly continue reintegrating into first team training.

Jesus may still be absent from Arsenal’s next two Premier League games, before returning after the international break against Leeds at the start of April.

Arteta said prior to the Gunners’ dramatic 3-2 win over Bournemouth that they were happy with the progress Jesus has made in his recovery. 

‘He’s not very close but he’s not far at all,’ Arteta said.

‘He’s feeling better every day and the doctors are confident with the way the injury is evolving. We are in a good place with him, I think.’

‘His mentality is incredible and the team has done a really good job with him to put him in the position he’s in today.’

Jesus’ return would provide Arsenal with a boost in their pursuit of the Premier League title.

The Brazilian had scored five goals in 14 Premier League games prior to his injury.

Mikel Arteta’s side will return to Europa League action on Thursday against Sporting Lisbon

Arteta has praised how his squad has stood up during Jesus’ absence. 

The late victory over Bournemouth saw Arteta’s side maintain their five point lead over defending champions Manchester City at the top of the table.

Arsenal will return to Europa League action on Thursday when they face Sporting Lisbon at the Jose Alvalade stadium.

The Gunners are among the favourites to win the tournament.