Arsenal’s search for a new striker is reportedly nearing its conclusion, with Victor Gyokeres of Sporting CP potentially joining the club this week. As previously reported in March, Arsenal informed Eddie Nketiah that he is free to seek a new club this summer due to a lack of guaranteed playing time in the upcoming season. The Gunners have placed a £50 million price tag on the 25-year-old amid interest from Crystal Palace.
Nketiah’s departure would necessitate a replacement, and manager Mikel Arteta is eager to introduce more competition for Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz as he gears up for another title challenge.
Gyokeres, 26, who moved to Sporting from Coventry City for £17.5 million last summer, has been prolific in Portugal, scoring 43 goals in 50 matches during the 2023/24 season. His remarkable form has attracted the attention of Europe’s elite clubs, with Arsenal identifying him as their prime striker target.
Reports from Portugal, as cited by The Evening Standard, suggest that a deal for Gyokeres could be finalized within days. However, securing his services will not come cheap, as he has an £86 million release clause in his contract.
Negotiations between Arsenal and Sporting for Gyokeres are ongoing and appear to be progressing well, indicating that a transfer could be imminent. Arteta is reportedly desperate to secure a new focal point in attack and considers the Swedish international his top choice.
While Arsenal is also interested in Victor Gyokeres and Serhou Guirassy, the urgency to finalize Gyokeres’ signing suggests they aim to complete the deal before submitting their accounts to the Premier League on Sunday.
Gyokeres himself hinted at the possibility of a move last month when asked about his future in an interview. He expressed contentment with his current situation but acknowledged the uncertainty of what the next year might hold, stating, “I have a contract and I won’t be sad if I stay, I’m very happy, but we’ll see what happens. We can’t predict much, but let’s see what next year will be like.”
It remains to be seen whether Arsenal will trigger Gyokeres’ release clause or attempt to negotiate a lower fee. The Gunners will need to act swiftly to avoid losing him to other interested clubs. If Gyokeres can replicate his Sporting form in the Premier League, he could be the key player Arsenal needs to close the gap on Manchester City.
