Some Arsenal insiders reportedly harbour concerns over Viktor Gyokeres ahead of a possible summer transfer. A deal for the Sporting Lisbon star is one of a number of possibilities the Gunners are considering ahead of the window.
Arsenal could sign a new centre-forward this summer, having seen their attacking options wiped out by injuries in the second half of the season. The lack of a genuine No. 9 caused Mikel Arteta issues for much of the campaign. Gyokeres’ stock is high thanks to another remarkable season in Portugal. The Sweden international struck 54 goals in 52 appearances for Sporting.
The Primeira Liga champions reportedly want upwards of £70million for the 26-year-old, ruling the majority of Europe out of the race. Arsenal are one of only a few clubs who can afford to complete a deal.
But according to the Daily Mail, some figures inside the club are unsure whether Gyokeres can make an immediate impact in the Premier League. The English top-flight is a tougher division than its Portuguese equivalent.
New sporting director Andrea Berta is said to be a big fan of Gyokeres, who has previously played on these shores with Coventry, Brighton and Swansea. Berta is said to have admired the forward while he was in charge of Atletico Madrid’s sporting department.
Benjamin Sesko and Hugo Ekitike have also been linked with Arsenal ahead of the summer. Both have interest from elsewhere in the Premier League and beyond.
Manchester United are also said to be considering a deal for Gyokeres. He scored many of his goals for Sporting under Red Devils boss Ruben Amorim, who has watched his new club flounder in the final third since arriving last November.
Major surgery is expected to be completed at Old Trafford over the summer and a new centre-forward is likely to be part of the club’s plans. Liam Delap has been linked but Chelsea are reported to be the frontrunners to sign the Ipswich star.
Meanwhile, Arsenal will reportedly make Martin Zubimendi their first summer signing. Sky Sports report that the Gunners are finalising a £51m move with Real Sociedad. The defensive midfielder could be set to link up with Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard next season.
Further additions at the Emirates Stadium could be necessary. Arsenal are hoping to finally bridge the gap between them winning the Premier League next term.