The race to bolster the Arsenal frontline has intensified. After months of whispers and scattered reports, the Gunners appear to have shifted gears. They now seem set on bringing in a lethal forward before next season kicks off. Their interest in Viktor Gyokeres has moved from tentative admiration to serious pursuit. With Sporting CP still fighting for honours domestically, Arsenal have waited, but not quietly. Preparations are underway, and once the curtain falls on the Portuguese campaign, action is expected. The north Londoners look increasingly confident of landing their man, and the numbers being thrown around suggest a high-stakes summer lies ahead.
Arsenal are reportedly ready to offer Viktor Gyokeres an annual post-tax wage of £7 million, a figure that underlines their intent. The Swedish striker has been prolific this term, scoring over fifty goals and assisting more than a dozen. Sporting CP appear ready to let go, aware that holding on might not be realistic.
Arsenal’s hierarchy, led by the influential Andrea Berta, believe Gyokeres fits Arteta’s plan perfectly. Though other forwards remain on their radar, including Isak, Watkins and Sesko, none seem to have captured Arsenal’s imagination quite like Gyokeres. Talks may accelerate once Sporting finish their season, especially with a domestic double still within reach.
Arsenal respect that situation but are also poised to move fast. Reports of a £75 million bid surfaced earlier, but were later downplayed. Still, the Gunners know the cost and are prepared to meet it if the terms can be balanced sensibly. A deal may not reach the €100 million release clause, but a significant outlay is expected either way.
Arsenal Ready to Propose £7M Annual After-Tax Deal for Viktor Gyokeres
This feels like the kind of move that could transform Arsenal’s attack. They’ve played too often without a natural striker this season. Despite creating chances, finishing has often let them down. Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah haven’t nailed the role, while Kai Havertz has only just adapted. Gyokeres may not hit the same numbers he’s managed in Portugal, but he’ll give Arteta a reference point up front.
A strong, quick, direct striker who presses, scores and holds up play—this is the type Arsenal have missed. His salary might raise eyebrows, but it shows Arsenal mean business. They know the cost of missing out on titles due to inefficiency in front of goal. If the price and wage are acceptable to both parties, the Gunners shouldn’t hesitate. Still, it’s crucial to ensure the squad remains balanced.
Spending big on Gyokeres must not derail other plans. The left-eight role, full-back depth and centre-back cover still need attention. But in terms of priorities, getting a consistent goal scorer has to top the list. If Gyokeres delivers even 70% of what he’s done in Lisbon, Arsenal could finally have the missing piece they’ve searched for since Aubameyang left. This deal feels bold, and that’s exactly what they need.