Quick Read
- Viktor Gyokeres is close to a record-breaking €80 million transfer to Arsenal.
- The 27-year-old Swedish striker scored 54 goals last season for Sporting CP.
- Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta aims to strengthen the squad for the 2025/26 season.
- Gyokeres will become the most expensive Swedish player in football history.
- Personal terms on a five-year contract have reportedly been agreed.
Swedish striker Viktor Gyokeres appears to be on the brink of a record-breaking transfer to Arsenal, according to reports from Sportbible and Maisfutebol. The 27-year-old forward, who has made a name for himself with his prolific goal-scoring at Sporting CP, is set to join the Premier League giants for a fee that could reach €80 million (£69 million). If finalized, this deal will make Gyokeres the most expensive Swedish player in football history, surpassing the likes of Zlatan Ibrahimović and Alexander Isak.
Arsenal’s Summer Spending Spree
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has been vocal about the club’s ambitions for the upcoming 2025/26 season. Speaking last season, Arteta emphasized the importance of bolstering the squad’s depth and quality to compete at the highest level. “Now we want to increase the depth of the squad, but as well we want to increase the quality and the skills that we need to go to the next step,” Arteta said. This summer, the North London club has already added goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga from Chelsea and midfielder Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad to their ranks. Gyokeres is poised to be their marquee signing, with Chelsea winger Noni Madueke also reportedly on Arsenal’s radar.
Gyokeres’ arrival would address Arsenal’s need for a top-tier striker. The Swede has been in sensational form, scoring 54 goals for Sporting CP last season after netting 43 in his debut campaign. According to BBC Sport, Arsenal and Sporting CP are in advanced talks, with personal terms on a five-year contract reportedly agreed upon.
Gyokeres’ Journey to Stardom
Viktor Gyokeres’ rise to prominence has been nothing short of remarkable. Born in Sweden, he began his professional career with IF Brommapojkarna before moving to Brighton & Hove Albion in 2017. However, he found limited opportunities at the Premier League club, making just eight appearances without featuring in league matches.
Gyokeres truly came into his own during his time at Coventry City in the English Championship. Over two seasons, he scored 38 goals in 91 appearances, catching the attention of Sporting CP, who signed him in 2023. His record-breaking stint in Portugal has now paved the way for his return to English football, this time as a proven goal-scorer.
Breaking Records and Expectations
If the €80 million transfer fee is confirmed, Gyokeres will surpass Zlatan Ibrahimović’s €69 million move from Inter Milan to Barcelona in 2009 and Alexander Isak’s €70 million switch from Real Sociedad to Newcastle United in 2023. Such a record-breaking fee underscores Arsenal’s confidence in Gyokeres’ abilities to lead their attack in the Premier League and beyond.
For Sporting CP, the sale represents a significant financial windfall. The Portuguese club has benefited immensely from Gyokeres’ contributions, both on and off the pitch, and his transfer fee will likely be reinvested to strengthen their squad.
Gyokeres’ move also highlights Arsenal’s determination to reclaim their status as title contenders. After narrowly missing out on the Premier League title in recent seasons, the Gunners are pulling out all the stops to ensure they have the firepower needed to compete with the likes of Manchester City and Liverpool.
As the deal edges closer to completion, Arsenal fans will be eagerly anticipating the official announcement, marking the arrival of one of Europe’s most in-demand strikers at the Emirates Stadium.