Arsenal are reportedly unlikely to make a move for Viktor Gyokeres, following statements from both Mikel Arteta and the striker himself.
The Gunners have been rumoured to be on the hunt for an elite striker throughout the summer, with several names, including Benjamin Sesko, Joshua Zirkzee, Victor Osimhen, and Gyokeres, linked to the club. However, the search for a new forward seems to have cooled in recent weeks, as Arteta appears content with his current options in Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus.
Gyokeres, currently playing for Sporting Clube de Portugal, has attracted significant attention from Europe’s top clubs following a remarkable season. The 26-year-old striker netted an astounding 43 goals in 50 appearances for Sporting across all competitions. He has also started this season in fine form, scoring six league goals in just three appearances.
Viktor Gyokeres speaks on Sporting exit links
After a recent league fixture, Gyokeres addressed the speculation surrounding his future. While he didn’t fully commit to staying at Sporting long-term, he expressed satisfaction with his current situation.
“You never know what happens. I feel very good at Sporting, for sure; but in football, there are things you don’t even know. I feel very good here, I’m very happy at Sporting, and I don’t have any problem,” Gyokeres said.
Arteta closes the door for new striker?
While Gyokeres’ statement opens the door to a potential move from Portugal, Arteta’s statement effectively closes that door. When asked whether Arsenal were still looking to sign a new striker, the Spaniard replied, “New number 9? It’s not a question that we ask ourselves because we have some great strikers. We fully trust our players, we want to get better… but going to try with players that are already with us”.
However, Arteta did not entirely rule out the possibility of making moves in the transfer market as the window nears its close.
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“We have to [consider new signings] because anything can happen both ways. You have to be ready, especially in the last week. You have to be alert and prepared because a lot of surprises can come, for many different reasons, and we are prepared,” Arteta added.
