Arsenal Insider can exclusively reveal what Mikel Arteta has planned for Gabriel Jesus if the Gunners land a deal for Viktor Gyokeres.
Arsenal are known to want to sign a striker in this summer transfer window.
Earlier this summer, Mikel Arteta pushed to bring Benjamin Sesko to Arsenal. However, the Slovenian ultimately chose to remain with Bundesliga outfit RB Leipzig.
The North London club have now pivoted to an alternative target. Arsenal are trying to sign Viktor Gyokeres, who is available for £85 million.
The 26-year-old would certainly represent an exciting arrival at the Emirates Stadium. Arteta has admitted that Arsenal must improve in front of goal, and the Swedish forward is a clinical finisher.
Gyokeres was in prolific form for Sporting last season, as he racked up 43 goals in 50 appearances, across all competitions. He is now ready to test himself at a higher level, and has all the attributes required to be a neat fit at the Emirates Stadium.
Mikel Arteta won’t change Gabriel Jesus role if Viktor Gyokeres joins Arsenal
Whilst there would be plenty of excitement surround this signing if it happens, it won’t necessarily represent good news for everyone in North London.
Gabriel Jesus could suffer if Arsenal sign Gyokeres, as the Brazilian striker already slipped down the pecking order last season, and could see his opportunities to play restricted further by the Sweden international’s arrival.
Arsenal Insider sources have now revealed that Arteta does not plan to shift Jesus out to a role on the flanks, to offer cover for the likes of Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli, in the event of Gyokeres’ arrival.
The former Manchester City man is still principally seen as a striker by the Gunners, though Arteta is open to using him on the flanks if forced to by suspensions or injuries.
Jesus has convinced Arteta that he can still lead the line effectively for Arsenal. The Spanish coach still have faith in him, but seemingly not enough to put him off making a move for Gyokeres at all.
Arsenal send scouts to watch Gyokeres
Arsenal have been keeping a close eye on the Sweden international for some time. Arsenal sent scouts to watch Gyokeres in Sporting’s recent pre-season friendly clash with Athletic Bilbao.
However, the Gunners are already confident in their opinion of the attacker. The primary purpose of this trip was to assess Gyokeres’ fitness, as he had minor knee surgery earlier this summer.
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