Arsenal are ready to break the bank in their pursuit of Swedish goal machine Viktor Gyokeres, with reports suggesting the Gunners are preparing an £85m bid for the Sporting Lisbon striker.
The 25-year-old has taken Portuguese football by storm since his £20m move from Coventry City last summer, netting an incredible 36 goals in just 39 appearances across all competitions.
Arteta's Striker Search
Mikel Arteta has identified Gyokeres as the perfect solution to Arsenal's attacking problems, with the North London club lacking a consistent goalscorer this season. The Swedish international's physical presence and clinical finishing have made him one of Europe's most sought-after forwards.
Release Clause Complications
While Sporting are desperate to keep their star man, his £85m release clause makes a summer departure increasingly likely. Arsenal's technical director Edu has reportedly been in regular contact with the player's representatives, though they face competition from Chelsea and other European giants.
Key Stats That Impress:
- 36 goals in 39 games this season
- 1 goal every 89 minutes in Liga Portugal
- 14 assists to go with his goalscoring exploits
- Physical 6'1" frame perfect for Premier League
What Gyokeres Would Bring to Arsenal
The powerful striker would offer Arsenal something different to current options Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah. His ability to hold up play, combined with ruthless efficiency in front of goal, could be the missing piece in Arteta's title-chasing puzzle.
With Champions League football almost guaranteed next season, Arsenal are showing their ambition by targeting one of Europe's most in-form forwards. Whether they can convince Sporting to sell - and beat rival clubs to his signature - remains to be seen.