Manchester United icon Rio Ferdinand has thrown his weight behind a sensational Arsenal move for Sporting Lisbon's goal-scoring phenomenon Viktor Gyökeres, insisting the Swedish striker could be the missing ingredient for Premier League glory.
Speaking on his popular FIVE podcast, the former England defender made an emphatic case for the Gunners to activate Gyökeres' reported £85 million release clause, despite the player only arriving in Portugal last summer.
From Coventry Reject to Portuguese Prodigy
Gyökeres' transformation has been nothing short of remarkable. After struggling to make an impact at Coventry City, the 25-year-old has taken Primeira Liga by storm, netting an astonishing 36 goals across all competitions this season.
"This guy, I'm telling you now, if I'm Arsenal, I'm paying the money," declared Ferdinand with characteristic enthusiasm. "He's the one. He's the one I'd go and get."
The Statistical Case for Gyökeres
The numbers behind Gyökeres' breakthrough season make compelling reading for any top club seeking attacking reinforcement:
- 36 goals in 39 appearances across all competitions
- 14 assists demonstrating creative capabilities
- Physical presence combined with technical excellence
- Proven adaptability from Championship to top-flight European football
Arsenal's Striker Conundrum
While Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah have contributed to Arsenal's title charge, Ferdinand believes Gyökeres represents a significant upgrade that could propel Mikel Arteta's side to championship success.
"I watched him against Benfica and other games, and I've seen enough," Ferdinand explained. "He can run in behind, he can link play, he's physical, he's aggressive, he scores all types of goals."
The Release Clause Dilemma
With Sporting Lisbon holding firm on their £85 million valuation, Arsenal face stiff competition for the Swedish international's signature. Several European giants are monitoring the situation closely, recognising Gyökeres as one of the emerging talents in European football.
Ferdinand's endorsement adds significant weight to the growing chorus of voices suggesting Gyökeres could be the final piece in Arteta's carefully constructed puzzle at the Emirates Stadium.
