Arsenal’s pursuit of a top-class striker appears to be reaching a breakthrough, with Sporting CP forward Viktor Gyokeres now firmly in their sights. After complications in talks with RB Leipzig for Benjamin Sesko, the Gunners have shifted focus to the prolific Swedish striker and former Arsenal defender Martin Keown believes the move is exactly what the North London club needs.
As reported by football.london, Arsenal are working on finalizing a deal that could cost around £61 million with an additional £8.6 million in performance-based add-ons. The transfer would mark a significant statement of intent from Mikel Arteta’s side, who have already added experienced goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga to provide competition for David Raya.
Keown, speaking on the potential signing, gave his strong approval. “This guy is rock solid. You can play the ball into him, he holds it up well, he has pace, power,” he said. “I think he’s quite emphatic in front of goal and just what Arsenal need.”
The 26-year-old Gyokeres had a standout season in Portugal, earning plaudits for his physicality, work rate, and clinical finishing. Arsenal have long been in need of a dependable centre-forward especially considering the injuries and inconsistency in their current attacking lineup.
Keown emphasized that the pressure is now on Gyokeres to deliver. “He just needs now to do his talking on the pitch,” he stated. When asked whether fans would finally stop criticizing the club’s transfer strategy, Keown was blunt: “You shut the noise down by what you do—performances.”
He also highlighted the importance of having new players settled in before the season kicks off, especially given Arsenal’s typically challenging early fixtures. “They need to have players in the building early to build up those relationships, build up those partnerships and make the next step. This is the next step for Arsenal.”
With the Premier League season looming, the signing of Gyokeres could provide the firepower Arsenal need to mount another serious title challenge.
