Gyokeres Move Signals Arsenal's Shift in Transfer Strategy
Fresh off a £51 million spending spree on midfielder Martin Zubimendi, Arsenal are making it clear: they want to build a squad that can win now—not just in a few years. Their next big focus? Bringing in a striker who doesn’t just promise goals but delivers them right away. That’s why Viktor Gyokeres, Sporting Lisbon’s Swedish powerhouse, has moved to the top of their wish list as a cheaper and more reliable option than Benjamin Sesko.
There’s a lot to like about Gyokeres. He’s not just two-footed in front of goal—meaning he can finish from either side—but he’s also gained a reputation for keeping his cool when it counts. That’s something Arsenal have been craving, especially in tight matches where one missed chance could cost dearly. What really stands out, though, is Gyokeres’ willingness to accept a major pay cut just to make the move happen. That’s a rare kind of hunger you don’t always see in today’s market.
Balancing Value, Experience, and Squad Needs
Sure, Benjamin Sesko still looks like a possible signing from RB Leipzig, but his €80 million release clause is a major headache. Plus, Leipzig aren’t in a rush to sell, and that long-winded negotiation process isn’t Arsenal’s style this window. It also doesn’t help that Sesko, while brimming with potential, hasn’t really proven himself at the elite level yet.
Gyokeres, on the other hand, checks more boxes for Arsenal transfer requirements. He brings a mix of finishing skill, mental toughness, and the kind of flexibility that fits Arsenal’s attacking blueprint. Even if he hasn’t played tons of games in Europe’s most famous leagues, he’s shown he can carry the load for Sporting. And by offering to lower his wages, he’s freed up cash that Arsenal might use to plug other gaps in the squad—a crucial detail when you’re aiming for Premier League glory and need depth across the pitch.
But what if Arsenal want to play it safe and go cheaper? They have looked at Jonathan David, about to leave Lille on a free transfer, and Tolu Arokodare from Genk, whose price tag is only £15 million. Both these guys could save Arsenal a stack of cash, but there are doubts over whether they could hit the ground running in England. Neither has the pedigree or versatility of Gyokeres, so Arsenal risk ending up with a bargain that doesn’t deliver.
At the heart of all this is Arsenal’s desire to finally catch Liverpool and their other rivals at the top. Their approach is clear: get proven, adaptable talent who can improve results straight away. That way, every investment in the squad moves them one step closer to lifting the Premier League trophy—no more risky gambles on ‘what if’ signings who might need years to develop.