In a transfer window full of noise and inflated price tags, one name has started to cut through the chaos: Viktor Gyokeres. After a sensational season at Sporting CP, where he racked up goals, assists, and admirers across Europe, the 26-year-old Swede is now firmly in the sights of the Premier League. And as it stands, Arsenal are leading the chase.
While other clubs have circled, including Chelsea and multiple Saudi sides, Arsenal have moved with intent, and crucially, with a sporting pitch that’s resonated with the player.
According to sources close to negotiations,a deal worth €70 million plus €10 million in add-ons is nearing completion. Arsenal and Sporting are working through the performance-related bonuses, as the broad structure is already on the table. Gyokeres has been sold on Mikel Arteta’s vision.
“It’s not just about the money. He wants to be part of something ambitious, something structured. Arsenal tick those boxes,” says a source close to the player’s camp.
Gyokeres had interest from Saudi clubs that would’ve made him one of the highest-paid strikers in Europe overnight. He, however, turned them down, not out of disrespect, but because his priorities are different. At 26, he wants to compete at the highest level in Europe. He wants Champions League football, a team that plays on the front foot, and a manager who trusts him.
And that, right now, points to North London.
Across town, Chelsea has been watching quietly. Internal discussions were held. Although the interest is real, so far, no official offer has landed and time may be running out.
Chelsea can offer plenty: world-class facilities, a deep squad, and Premier League pedigree. It can, however, promise, at least not clearly, a defined role in the starting XI and a cohesive tactical plan. Under Enzo Maresca, the club is entering yet another new chapter. For some players, that’s exciting. For Gyokeres, it may feel like a gamble.
And unlike Chelsea, Arsenal does not yet have Champions League football to sweeten the deal.
Unless they act decisively and fast, they risk missing out.
What Gyokeres Could Bring to Arsenal?
If Arsenal get this over the line, they’ll be adding a striker who’s more than just a finisher. Gyokeres is physical, intelligent with his movement, and excellent in transition. He can press, link up play, and he’s proven to carry a front line, something Arsenal have lacked in key moments.
He scored 29 goals and added 10 assists in all competitions last season, and did it in a system not too different from Arteta’s. It’s not just the numbers; it’s the fit.
He wouldn’t walk into the team unchallenged; there’s still Gabriel Jesus, Havertz, and Nketiah in the mix, he offers a profile Arsenal currently lack: a true No. 9 who combines athleticism with ruthlessness.
Sporting wants clarity soon. Arsenal wants their man in before preseason gets into full swing. And Gyokeres, by all indications, wants to be in London, preferably in red and white.
Unless Chelsea launches a dramatic late bid or Sporting raises last-minute complications, this is Arsenal’s deal to lose.
