Opinion

Three reasons Arsenal must avoid Viktor Gyokeres transfer and three more reasons they must sign him

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Arsenal have a bold decision to make this summer over which striker option is the one to guide the team forward.

After several summers of failing to land the centre-forward who will take them to the next level, Andrea Berta is ready to end the wait.

On exactly who, though, is unclear, as Arsenal are in talks with Benjamin Sesko and Viktor Gyokeres over a move at the same time.

The sporting director will eventually have his pick of who will be the next number nine through the door at the Emirates Stadium.

So, with that said, here’s a look at a few reasons why Arsenal should and shouldn’t sign Viktor Gyokeres this summer.

Viktor Gyokeres looks on during a Sporting CP match
Photo by Diogo Cardoso/Getty Images

Why Arsenal must avoid Viktor Gyokeres transfer

The jump from Portugal to England

It’s fair to say that one of the biggest doubts about Gyokeres is whether he can translate his goals from Portugal to the Premier League.

Not many players have managed the jump well, with strikers often struggling to recreate the numbers they scored before.

Given the finances involved, it is a clear concern with Gyokeres.

Penalty record in question

One of the other concerns is Gyokeres’ penalty record, which saw him score an incredible 19 goals from the spot.

While his 100% conversion rate from penalties is impressive, it’s clear that he won’t have quite as many next season.

Arsenal received just two penalties in the Premier League last season, which may be a worry for the striker.

Viktor Gyokeres celebrates for Sporting CP
Photo by Diogo Cardoso/Getty Images

Tough on resale value

At 27 years old, Gyokeres is entering his peak and, if things don’t work out, then there will be little resale value for Arsenal.

Why Arsenal must complete Viktor Gyokeres transfer

Fits what Arsenal need

Arsenal clearly need a striker who is capable of creating chances for themselves, and Gyokeres fits that perfectly.

On many occasions, the striker has been sent through against defenders on his own, and he has managed to create and finish those chances.

Gyokeres also occupies the box well and has shown he can be clinical, which is exactly what is needed for the Gunners.

Viktor Gyokeres celebrates with the Liga Portugal medal after Sporting CP beat Vitoria
Photo by PATRICIA DE MELO MOREIRA/AFP via Getty Images

Entering his peak

While the resale value is a point to take into account, the fact that Gyokeres is entering his peak is an attractive prospect.

The Swedish international is nearing a point where he can fulfil all of his promise at the top level.

With Arsenal needing to win now and not relying on developing a player, Gyokeres could be the one to land some trophies.

Manchester United blow

It’s no secret that Manchester United want Gyokeres in a deal that would see him reunite with Ruben Amorim.

However, if Arsenal manage to land him instead, it would deal a huge blow to their rivals as they look to improve.