Arsenal have reportedly cooled their interest in Viktor Gyokeres alongside other striker targets, although they are still interested in another emerging star.
According to Football Insider, Arsenal are not about to pursue Viktor Gyokeres any further as they have cooled their interest in the Swedish striker. The Sporting CP star was considered for a move during this window, but Mikel Arteta may have had a change of mind in the background.
Arsenal abandon Viktor Gyokeres pursuit
Since the previous season ended, Arsenal have seen links with numerous names as the media strongly reported the need for a new striker. The emergence of Kai Havertz in the centre-forward role during the second half of the season may have changed Arteta’s mind about the profile he needed, as the Gunners have seemingly cooled their interest in several top-notch targets.
After Victor Osimhen fell off their radar, it is time for the club to abandon the pursuit of Viktor Gyokeres. They had a big interest in the Sporting CP star, with some sections even suggesting the two clubs had held talks. The Swedish centre-forward had a fantastic season with 43 goals across all competitions, as Ruben Amorim’s side lifted the Portuguese league title.
Gyokeres has featured on the list of many other clubs, although his huge release clause was always going to be a problem before anyone could think about making a move. Sporting CP do not have any big reason to accept a cut-price deal after the performances he has given over the previous season. Meanwhile, the Gunners may have wanted a younger striker like Benjamin Sesko, only for the Slovenian to stay put at RB Leipzig.
Unless there is a big market opportunity, Arsenal may not actively pursue a striker and instead focus on strengthening the wide attacking role. They need a versatile winger to cover for Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli, as Arteta seeks someone he can rotate in games.
Are Arsenal keen on Brian Brobbey?
There has been reported interest in Ajax striker Brian Brobbey, with Manchester United also keen on the Dutchman. The Ajax star is one of the names on Arteta’s striker shortlist, with the young striker not disappointing last season despite the challenges it brought to Ajax.
Meanwhile, the Gunners are closing in on defender Riccardo Calafiori, with Arteta clearly seeking a solid option for his backline. They also want a third-choice goalkeeper and have already seen a bid rejected by Wolves for former academy star and 30-year-old Dan Bentley.
