The Champions League is back for another midweek full of action and for Arsenal, it represents a chance to close in on a top-eight finish.
With two wins, one draw and one defeat in the opening four games, the league phase is now exactly half way complete.
Mikel Arteta will be keen to book a place automatically in the round of 16, skipping the need for a play-off round with extra games in the middle.
If Arsenal want to get that far in the Champions League, they will likely have to overcome Sporting CP, their next opponents in the competition.
The Portuguese outfit are dangerous, sitting second in the table after they thrashed Manchester City 4-1.
Even without head coach Ruben Amorim, who moved to Manchester United over the international break, the side are still a threat.
Arsenal warned about Viktor Gyokeres threat for Sporting CP
Arsenal have been linked with a transfer for Viktor Gyokeres, so his threat isn’t anything new to the Gunners at this point.
Just how threatening is unclear to those who may not watch him each and every week as he tears it up in Portugal.
| Appearances | 19 |
| Goals | 24 |
| Assists | 4 |
Scoring at a greater rate than one goal per game, there have naturally been questions over whether the level in Portugal is simply too easier for Gyokeres.
However, his hat-trick against Manchester City in the last Champions League game shows he is more than capable of dismantling a defence.
After an intense international break, the Swedish striker was rested for Sporting’s clash with Amarente in the league cup.
He still came off the bench to score a goal, with Portuguese outlet A Bola describing him as a “monster” who is courting interest from Europe’s biggest clubs – Arsenal included.
Arsenal’s Viktor Gyokeres scouting mission
There may be no better way to get a judge on how good Gyokeres could be than seeing him face a Premier League side.
Given his ability to rip through Man City, if he manages to do the same against Arsenal then that may sway a transfer decision one way or the other.
The scouts at the club may get a greater idea of the Swedish striker’s ability, while Manchester United have shown interest in Gyokeres as well.
Should he impress, then perhaps a deal could emerge for January, with a release clause that would allow for a quick deal to progress.
Given the need for a new centre-forward, it could be the best option for Mikel Arteta to bolster his squad for the title challenge and cup runs ahead.
Receive a digest of our best Arsenal content each week direct to your mailbox
