Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney has picked Arsenal striker Viktor Gyokeres as the best signing of the Premier League season.
The Sweden international signed for the Gunners from Sporting CP last summer after a prolonged transfer saga for several weeks.
He had a slow start to his Gunners career, but was hugely influential in the back end of the league season as the club clinched a long-awaited title.
Speaking on his BBC Podcast, Rooney talked about the ‘best signing’ of the campaign.
Granit Xhaka has been exceptional for Sunderland since his surprise move from Bayer Leverkusen, but Rooney feels Gyokeres is the best signing this term.
The former United man highlighted that the 27-year-old has given Arsenal something different, and that has been a big factor in them winning the title.
He said: “I think Viktor Gyokeres. Granit Xhaka has been brilliant for Sunderland, but look at what Gyokeres has brought to Arsenal; it’s exactly what they’ve needed.
“Finishing second over the last three years, I think he’s given Arsenal something a bit different, and that’s been a big factor in them winning the Premier League.”
Gyokeres, described as ‘incredible‘ by Gunners manager Mikel Arteta, netted only seven goals during the first half of the season, which led to plenty of criticism.
However, he has doubled that tally during the back end of the campaign (14). Aside from his 21 goals, the former Sporting CP has also chipped in with three assists.
He has certainly improved his hold-up and link-up play after a difficult start and could get even better next season as his teammates adapt to his movements.
Arsenal have a huge Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain on Saturday. Gyokeres could yet have a big role to play as the Gunners seek a maiden title in the elite European competition.
Kai Havertz’s mobility was preferred in the crucial league win over Burnley, but Arteta could opt for Gyokeres upfront against Les Parisiens, given he can be a menace with his strong physical presence.
His best game for the club in Europe came against Atletico at home in the semi-final. A similar performance, capped by a goal, could lead the Gunners to a maiden Champions League crown.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com