Arsenal may have missed out on securing one of Europe’s top talents, a decision that could haunt them as competition for his signature intensifies. Mikel Arteta and Edu Gaspar, the club’s Director of Football, decided not to pursue a summer target due to his high transfer fee. However, this player has since demonstrated that he is indeed worth the valuation with a stellar start to the 2024/25 season.
The choice to pass on Swedish striker Viktor Gyökeres could backfire, as he is rapidly proving his value. According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Arsenal decided against signing him due to his £86 million release clause.
Romano noted in an interview with Men in Blazers that Arsenal might look to add another offensive player, but not someone as expensive as Gyökeres, suggesting that a winger or a different type of forward might be a better fit behind Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka.
Romano’s assessment was accurate, as Arsenal ultimately chose to bring Raheem Sterling on loan from Chelsea. However, as Gyökeres continues to shine at Sporting CP, Arsenal may soon regret not investing in him during the summer. Gyökeres has had a fantastic start to the 2024/25 season, scoring seven goals and providing three assists in just five matches for Sporting CP.
He has also been impressive on the international stage, contributing three goals and two assists in two UEFA Nations League games for Sweden, bringing his season total to 10 goals and five assists in just seven appearances.
This form is a continuation of Gyökeres’ excellent performance from the previous season, where he scored 43 goals and provided 15 assists in 50 matches. His consistent ability to perform both domestically and internationally has cemented his reputation, drawing the attention of top European clubs.
Although Arsenal passed on signing him, they may still have an opportunity to secure his services. With major clubs like Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, and Manchester City having already signed other strikers, Arsenal could avoid heavy competition.
Given their current lack of a reliable No. 9, Arsenal may reconsider their position on Gyökeres if their scoring struggles persist. His quality could make him the clinical striker Arsenal needs to compete at the highest level.
In short, Arsenal’s decision not to sign Viktor Gyökeres could be a costly mistake, and they may need to revisit this option to strengthen their attack in the near future.
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