Arsenal ‘developing strong interest’ in Viktor Gyokeres with new sporting director Andrea Berta a ‘firm admirer’ of Sporting Lisbon striker

Arsenal have developed a strong interest in Sporting Lisbon striker Viktor Gyokeres.

As reported by The Athletic, Andrea Berta, whose appointment as Arsenal’s new sporting director was confirmed on Sunday, regards Gyokeres highly.

Arsenal are eager to finally address their need to bring in a high-profile striker, with Gyokeres likely to be a prominent target.

Gyokeres is viewed as potentially being more attainable than Newcastle forward Alexander Isak.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is an admirer of Isak but Newcastle have no intention of letting him leave.

RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko is another potential option but it isn’t clear whether Arsenal will attempt to sign him.

New Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta (left) is a long-term admirer of Gyokeres

Gyokeres is seen as being a more attainable target that Newcastle forward Alexander Isak

Gyokeres boasts a superb return of 42 goals in 42 appearances for Sporting in all competitions so far this season.

In total he has scored 85 times in 92 games since joining Sporting from Coventry in 2023.

Arsenal’s need for a striker has been all too apparent this season, especially following injuries to Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus.

When available Havertz often gave a good account of himself and contributed with 15 goals this season in all competitions.

However, it is widely believed that Arsenal need an upgrade up front in order to help them to achieve success.

Midfielder Mikel Merino has filled in as a striker during the club’s injury crisis. 

Gyokeres hasn’t played in the Premier League but the 26-year-old does possess experience of English football from his time at Coventry, for whom he was prolific in the Championship.

He has scored 15 goals in 26 games for Sweden and helped Sporting to win the Portuguese league title last season.  

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta is eager for the club to bring in a high-profile striker this summer 

RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko is a potential option but Gyokeres appears to be the main target

Although Kai Havertz has often impressed Arsenal are eager to bring in another striker

Arsenal attempted to bring in Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins late in the Winter transfer window but were unsuccessful in their approach. 

The Gunners are through to the quarter-finals of the Champions League, where they will take on Real Madrid.

Meanwhile, Arteta’s team are currently nine points adrift of Premier League leaders Liverpool, albeit with a game in hand.