In a recent report, journalist Steve Kay mentioned that Arsenal are set to launch a move for Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres. It has been stated that the Gunners are open to paying €60m to land the Swedish forward in this transfer window.
Gyokeres’ Impressive Numbers In Portuguese Football
The 26-year-old had a decent campaign at the Portuguese club after he put in a series of productive displays as the focal point of their attack. Gyokeres banged in 43 goals and picked up 15 assists in 50 appearances for Sporting CP last season on all fronts.
The Swedish attacker enjoyed a good run of form in Europe where he averaged 1.9 shots, 1.1 key passes and 1.0 dribbles per game in the UEFA Europa League last season. However, he lacked quality when distributing the ball in the opponent’s half based on his pass completion rate of 73% in top-flight football (stats via whoscored).
His current contract at Sporting CP will run out in the summer of 2028. Hence, the Gunners would have to make a big offer if they are serious about recruiting Gyokeres this off-season.
Should Arsenal Boss Mikel Arteta Snap Gyokeres Up This Summer?
Gyokeres is proficient at engineering a yard of space for himself to get some strikes in at goal. He has got the vision to create a few inviting chances for his teammates in the final third and is a good dribbler with the ball as well.
Standing at 1.87m, the Swedish forward can use his strong frame to hold possession up for his team in the opponent’s half. However, he has to find a way to improve his link-up play on the offensive end of the field.
We can expect Gyokeres to bring more goals to Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta‘s attack. He is good enough to challenge for a regular starting place at the Emirates Stadium next season.
At 26, Gyokeres is about to enter his prime which makes him a decent fit for the North London club‘s needs this summer. All in all, Arteta would be wise to try and snap him up before the end of this summer transfer period. However, it remains to be seen whether he can make a smooth transition to life in England.
