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We have a curated list of the most noteworthy news from all across the globe. With any subscription plan, you get access to exclusive articles that let you stay ahead of the curve.
We have a curated list of the most noteworthy news from all across the globe. With any subscription plan, you get access to exclusive articles that let you stay ahead of the curve.
We have a curated list of the most noteworthy news from all across the globe. With any subscription plan, you get access to exclusive articles that let you stay ahead of the curve.
Arsenal have completed the signing of Sweden international Viktor Gyokeres from Sporting CP in a deal worth up to £63.5 million. The Gunners will pay an initial £55 million (€63m) with a further £8.5 million (€10m) in performance-related add-ons.
The 26-year-old striker has signed a five-year contract at the Emirates Stadium, becoming the club’s marquee summer signing as Mikel Arteta looks to bolster his attacking options ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.
Arsenal confirmed that Gyokeres will wear the club’s iconic No. 14 jersey, famously worn by legendary striker Thierry Henry.
A Long-Awaited Striker Signing
Arsenal had identified Gyokeres as their top attacking target this summer after previously showing interest in RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Šeško. The signing ends a lengthy search for a prolific No. 9 to complement their young, dynamic squad.
Speaking after the move, Gyokeres expressed his excitement about returning to English football:
“I always want to score. To be a part of this club, to score in this kit and with this badge in front of all the supporters—I can’t wait. It will be an amazing feeling.”
“I started here [in England], it feels like a long time ago. I’ve improved a lot since then. Now I want to prove myself for real and perform together with the team.”
Gyokeres previously played in England for Brighton & Hove Albion, Swansea City (loan), and Coventry City before making a €20 million switch to Sporting in 2023. His time in Portugal transformed his career.
Record-Breaking Form in Portugal
Gyokeres was a revelation in Lisbon, scoring 97 goals in 102 games across two seasons. Last season alone, he bagged 54 goals in 52 matches in all competitions, including a hat-trick against Manchester City in the Champions League. He also played a crucial role in helping Sporting win a domestic league and cup double.
Sporting president Frederico Varandas had insisted he would not accept less than €70 million for the striker, despite suggestions of a “gentleman’s agreement” allowing Gyokeres to leave for less.
The striker’s former club Coventry City will receive a windfall of just over £4 million due to a 10% sell-on clause. Brighton are also entitled to a smaller cut from their previous transfer arrangement. Coventry had originally retained 15% of any future sale but sold 5% of that back to Sporting last summer for an undisclosed fee.
Arteta: “A Constant Threat”
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta hailed Gyokeres’ arrival and believes he will make an immediate impact:
“We’re absolutely delighted to welcome Viktor to the club. His consistency, availability, and goal contributions speak for themselves.
“He’s a quick, powerful presence up front with a clinical edge. His intelligent movement makes him a constant threat, and we’re excited to start working with him.”
Sporting Director Berta: “Perfect Fit”
Sporting director Andrea Berta also praised the signing, calling Gyokeres a “perfect fit” for Arsenal’s philosophy:
“Viktor is an exceptional talent with the qualities and mentality of a top-level forward. His physicality, intelligence, and work ethic make him ideal for our vision.
“We are confident he will have a major impact both on and off the pitch.”
Analysis: Game-Changer or Gamble?
While Arsenal have responded to long-standing calls to sign a striker, questions remain over whether Gyokeres can replicate his prolific Portuguese form in the Premier League.
However, no player in Europe’s top eight leagues scored more league goals than his 39 last season. If he adapts quickly, Gyokeres could be the elite-level centre-forward Arsenal have lacked since the days of Robin van Persie.
Gyokeres’ arrival adds firepower to a squad already boasting the likes of Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, and Martin Ødegaard—raising expectations as Arsenal prepare for another title challenge and impressive run in the Champions League.
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