Manager Mikel Arteta and Director of Football Edu Gaspar ultimately decided against a deal for Gyökeres, citing his high price tag as a key factor in their choice.
Gyökeres’ reported £86 million release clause played a significant role in their decision, which Arteta and Edu felt was too steep.
Instead, they opted to sign Raheem Sterling on loan from Chelsea to enhance their attacking depth.
Fabrizio Romano, a well-known Italian journalist, previously noted that while Arsenal was considering another offensive signing, they had ruled out expensive options like Gyökeres.
On the “Men in Blazers” show, Romano explained that Arsenal sought a versatile forward to support Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka but was unwilling to meet Gyökeres’ high release clause.
Romano accurately predicted a less costly alternative would be pursued, leading to Sterling’s arrival to bolster Arsenal’s attack.
However, Gyökeres’ explosive start to the 2024/25 season might prompt Arsenal to reconsider their stance from the summer.
Since joining Sporting CP, Gyökeres has emerged as a key player, netting seven goals and providing three assists in just five league appearances.
His strong performance continued internationally, where he scored three goals and assisted twice in two UEFA Nations League matches for Sweden.
Overall, the Swedish striker has accumulated ten goals and five assists in his first seven games this season, a remarkable record that has drawn attention across Europe.
This performance isn’t entirely surprising, as Gyökeres had an impressive season last year, totaling 43 goals and 15 assists in 50 appearances.
The decision to pass on Gyökeres now seems more complicated, given Arsenal’s need for a reliable goal-scorer capable of securing wins in tight matches.
While Arsenal’s current front line has performed well, they could benefit from a lethal No. 9 who can deliver in high-pressure situations.
Gyökeres fits this profile, providing a consistent finishing threat in crucial games.
Looking ahead, Arsenal may still have a chance to sign the Swedish international.
As interest from top European clubs is likely to increase, Arsenal could benefit from recent moves by key competitors, with Real Madrid signing Kylian Mbappé, Bayern Munich acquiring Harry Kane, and Manchester City already having Erling Haaland.
With rivals focused on other targets, Arsenal may be in a good position to revisit Gyökeres next summer.
If Arsenal end up another season without a dependable, top-tier striker, the pressure to activate Gyökeres’ £86 million release clause may mount, especially if they aim to compete consistently at the highest levels.
