The Swedish striker is scheduled to land in London on Friday to finalize a move worth £63.8 million from Sporting CP, concluding Arsenal’s extended search for a new frontman. ..Continue Reading
Gyokeres originally joined Sporting from Coventry in 2023 for €20 million (£17.5 million), and since then, he’s racked up an incredible 97 goals in 102 appearances.
Both Manchester United and Arsenal showed interest, but Gyokeres made it clear his priority was playing in the Champions League.
It’s now confirmed that Arsenal have reached a complete agreement with Sporting CP to secure his signature.
According to The Athletic, Gyokeres has been cleared to travel and will undergo his medical with Arsenal on Saturday.
He’s set to wear the legendary number 14 shirt—famously worn by Thierry Henry during his iconic spell at the club.
Henry donned the number 14 throughout his first tenure at Arsenal, leading the team to two Premier League titles and a pair of FA Cup victories.
For many supporters, Henry is considered the greatest player in Premier League history, and Gyokeres choosing his number signals a bold belief that he can rise to the challenge.
Gyokeres will be the fourth player to inherit the number since Henry, following Theo Walcott, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, and most recently, Eddie Nketiah.
Manager Mikel Arteta had hoped to include Gyokeres in the squad for their pre-season tour of Asia.
However, Arsenal have already kicked off their tour with a 1-0 win over AC Milan in Singapore, courtesy of a goal from Bukayo Saka.
The Gunners have been highly active in the transfer market this summer, bringing in five senior players before Gyokeres.
Goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga and midfielder Christian Norgaard have joined to strengthen depth for what promises to be a demanding season.
Arsenal also completed a long-pursued deal for Spanish midfielder Martin Zubimendi, who arrived from Real Sociedad for £61 million.
Winger Noni Madueke made the switch from Chelsea in a transfer that could reach £52 million.
Though Madueke typically plays on the right flank, he’s expected to challenge Gabriel Martinelli for minutes on the left.
In defence, Cristhian Mosquera has signed from Valencia for £13 million, adding cover behind starting centre-backs William Saliba and Gabriel.
With so many changes at the Emirates, Arteta will be eager to maximize training time before the season begins.
Arsenal’s new campaign kicks off in three weeks with an away match against Manchester United at Old Trafford.
Gyokeres could make his debut in that fixture—facing his former coach Ruben Amorim.
It’s a tough opening stretch for Arsenal, who are also set to take on Liverpool, Manchester City, and Newcastle before September ends.