Viktor Gyokeres is reportedly ‘edging closer’ to a move to Arsenal, having informed friends and family that he anticipates joining the Premier League club. The prolific forward from Sporting CP is one of two strikers Arsenal is eyeing this summer.
The Gunners also have RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko on their radar, who appears to be their top target ahead of Viktor Gyokeres. However, Leipzig’s firm stance on a £70–90 million asking price may shift Arsenal’s focus entirely to the Swedish international from Portuguese champions Sporting.
Viktor Gyokeres, previously of Coventry City, enjoyed an incredible season last year, scoring 54 goals in 52 matches for Sporting. The only notable concern is that he has yet to compete in one of Europe’s top five leagues. While Sesko may not reach Viktor Gyokeres’ scoring heights, he has been showcasing his talent in a more competitive league and is just 22 years old, with the potential to become a top-tier striker.
At 27, Viktor Gyokeres has an £85 million release clause but could be available for less, with Sporting reportedly seeking between £60–70 million. Arsenal is in dire need of a new striker, and talks indicate they’re making significant progress in their pursuit of Gyokeres after being deterred by Leipzig’s valuation of Sesko.
According to talkSPORT, the Swede ‘is edging closer to joining’ the Premier League outfit, with journalist Alex Crook mentioning that those close to Gyokeres have been informed of his expectation to become an Arsenal player next season. “I had a message 24 hours ago suggesting that Viktor Gyokeres has told friends and family he expects to join Arsenal,” Crook stated on talkSPORT Breakfast.
There’s also interest from Manchester United, likely due to a pre-existing connection with Ruben Amorim. However, Arsenal can offer him Champions League football and a legitimate shot at the title next season.
Sporting is expected to play hardball in negotiations. There has been tension between Gyokeres and the club, with his agent claiming a gentleman’s agreement to let him leave for £60 million, though the club is aiming closer to £80 million.
Arsenal is currently balancing interest in both Gyokeres and Sesko and has initiated discussions with Leipzig. However, Viktor Gyokeres seems to be the more probable addition at this time.
Meanwhile, former Manchester City, Chelsea, and England winger Shaun Wright-Phillips—son of Arsenal legend Ian Wright—believes Gyokeres would be the better choice over Sesko.
When asked about Gyokeres, Wright-Phillips told Prime Casino: “If I were Arsenal, I’d prefer Julian Alvarez over any other option. Alvarez is unique with his mobility and finishing. He’s experienced, having won everything possible. To have him in your squad would be exceptional.
“Between Sesko and Gyokeres, I’d go for Gyokeres. He can physically challenge defences and works tirelessly; he has all the attributes you’d want. He’s confident in front of goal, and Arsenal could benefit from that – some flair and aggression. They need someone who can’t easily be pushed off the ball.
“I appreciate Sesko too; he’s a talented player. He reminds me a bit of Dimitar Berbatov with his calm demeanor and technical skill. But he doesn’t seem to fit Arsenal’s high-press style that Mikel Arteta prefers, while Gyokeres would definitely provide that.”
