LATEST UPDATES: Arsenal Favourites to Sign Sporting CP Star Viktor Gyokeres This Summer

Arsenal are reportedly the front-runners in the race to secure the signature of Sporting CP’s in-form striker, Viktor Gyokeres, as the summer transfer window approaches. The Gunners are aiming to bolster their attacking options after a Premier League campaign marked by frustration.

The 2024-2025 season has presented numerous challenges for Arsenal, with injuries and controversial refereeing decisions impacting their progress. These factors have arguably hindered their ability to mount a sustained title challenge.

Currently, Arsenal find themselves trailing league leaders Liverpool by a significant 13-point margin, with only five games remaining in the season. This gap underscores the need for strategic reinforcements to bridge the divide and compete at the highest level.

Despite the season’s obstacles, there’s a sense that Arsenal could have been much closer to the top of the table with a more consistent goal-scoring presence. The absence of a reliable striker has been a key area of concern.

Addressing this issue is reportedly a top priority for the Arsenal hierarchy as they look ahead to the summer transfer window. Viktor Gyokeres has emerged as a primary target to lead the line.

According to reports from A Bola, the Gunners are currently “in the front” of the queue for Gyokeres. The Portuguese publication suggests that Arsenal are the “best placed club to sign” the Swedish forward from Sporting CP.

Gyokeres’ current contract with Sporting CP includes a release clause set at £86 million. However, it’s also been reported that there’s a gentleman’s agreement in place, allowing him to depart for a fee in the region of £60m this summer.

The potential acquisition of Gyokeres is viewed as a significant move that could transform Arsenal’s attacking capabilities. His proven track record and playing style align well with the team’s needs.

Since joining Sporting CP from Coventry City, the 26-year-old has demonstrated exceptional form. His goal-scoring prowess and creative contributions have made him a standout performer.

Last season, Gyokeres recorded an impressive 43 goals and 15 assists in 50 appearances. He has already surpassed those numbers this season, with 47 goals and 11 assists in just 46 games.

While replicating those exact statistics in the Premier League might be challenging, Arsenal would undoubtedly welcome a return of around 25 goals from Gyokeres in his debut campaign.

Gyokeres possesses a combination of attributes that make him an ideal fit for Arsenal’s system. He is known for his mobility, physical presence, and ability to create opportunities for himself and his teammates. He also has a knack for winning duels.

This season, Gyokeres has averaged nearly six duels won per league appearance. His shooting accuracy is also noteworthy, boasting a shot-to-goal conversion rate of 28 percent in the Portuguese top-flight.

The potential arrival of Gyokeres is seen as a clear upgrade to Arsenal’s current forward options, including Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus, both of whom have been criticized for missed chances.

The addition of a prolific goal-scorer like Gyokeres could elevate Arsenal into genuine title contenders. His arrival would address a key weakness in the squad and provide a focal point in attack.