HERE WE GO: Arsenal signed 24-year-old striker on six-years deal as the player arrives at Emirates Stadium for unveiling
According to ESPN, the Arsenal hierarchy – including manager Mikel Arteta – have now firmly chosen the 27-year-old Swede as their top target. Andrea Berta, the Gunners’ new transfer chief, has reportedly travelled to Lisbon on multiple occasions as negotiations continue with both Sporting CP and the player’s representatives.
Talks are said to be progressing well, and there is growing optimism in North London that a deal could be struck soon. This follows the update we brought you yesterday from the BBC, indicating that Arsenal had made real progress towards securing Gyökeres, with the player himself very keen on the move.
That enthusiasm has now been underlined by fresh reports from Portugal. According to Record, Gyökeres has turned down big-money offers from Saudi Arabian clubs in order to prioritise a move to Arsenal, a decision that will further endear him to the club’s supporters.
With 15 goals in 26 caps for Sweden, a hat trick against Manchester City, and several goals in crucial league games for Sporting, he’s shown his ability to show up in the big moments.
Entering his prime years, Gyokeres may not have played in the Premier League, but his time in the Championship would certainly help with any adjustment period.
His link-up play and passing numbers are pretty impressive compared to some of the other options on the list. He’s racked up 16 assists in the last two league campaigns and 4 in 6 for Sweden this season.
His blend of pace, power, and relentless pressing makes him an ideal fit for Arteta’s system, and Arsenal are hoping to finalise a deal before pre-season begins next week.
The Gunners are expected to pay in excess of £70million to get the deal done, although negotiations may yet bring the fee down slightly or structure it in a more favourable way. What’s clear is that all parties are motivated – and that Arsenal believe they’ve found the striker to lead the line in a season where silverware is once again the expectation.
