Arsenal might have missed a key chance to sign one of Europe’s emerging talents before the competition for him intensifies. Manager Mikel Arteta and Director of Football Edu Gaspar chose not to pursue one of their summer transfer targets due to the steep price. The player in question, Viktor Gyökeres, has already demonstrated that he is worth his high valuation with an impressive start to the 2024/25 season.
Arsenal could soon regret not signing Gyökeres during the summer transfer window. According to football insider Fabrizio Romano, the Gunners decided against pursuing Gyökeres because they deemed his £86 million release clause too costly.
Romano commented, “Arsenal might add another attacking player, but it probably won’t be someone as expensive as Viktor Gyökeres. They might look for a new winger or a different type of player who can bring fresh energy behind Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka.”
Romano’s prediction has proven accurate, as Arsenal opted to sign Raheem Sterling on loan from Chelsea instead. However, with the season now in full swing, Arsenal may be re-evaluating their decision to pass on Gyökeres.
Gyökeres has had a remarkable start to the 2024/25 season, scoring seven goals and providing three assists in just five games for Sporting CP. Additionally, the Swedish striker recently scored three goals and added two assists in two UEFA Nations League matches for Sweden, bringing his total to an impressive 10 goals and five assists in just seven games this season.
These notable statistics follow an exceptional previous season in which Gyökeres scored 43 goals and provided 15 assists in 50 appearances. His prolific record makes Arsenal’s decision not to pursue him even harder to justify.
Although Arsenal may have missed their chance this summer, they could have another opportunity to sign the Swedish international. With many of Europe’s top clubs already featuring elite strikers—Real Madrid with Kylian Mbappé, Bayern Munich with Harry Kane, and Manchester City with Erling Haaland—the competition might be less intense next summer.
If Arsenal struggles to find a dependable No. 9 this season, Mikel Arteta may be tempted to trigger Gyökeres’ £86 million release clause next summer.
Gyökeres’ deadly finishing ability could provide the firepower Arsenal needs to secure crucial points in challenging matches, especially if they are not performing at their best.
