Arsenal Step Up Pursuit of Top Striker Target as Summer Plans Take Shape | OneFootball

Arsenal Push Ahead in Pursuit of Viktor Gyokeres as Berta Begins New Era

As North London prepares for the glamour of a Champions League quarter-final, the subtext is arguably just as intriguing as the headline event. The presence of Viktor Gyokeres’ representatives at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday, as reported by Football Transfers, points to more than just admiration from afar. It signals intent.

Gyokeres, 26, has emerged as one of Europe’s most prolific forwards this season with Sporting CP, and his rise has not gone unnoticed. Arsenal, under the guidance of newly-appointed sporting director Andrea Berta, appear poised to make a decisive move.

Recruitment Led by Berta’s Vision

“Arsenal’s interest in Sporting CP striker Gyokeres has intensified over the past week following the appointment of sporting director Andrea Berta. The Italian is believed to be leading the charge, having identified Gyokeres as his top striker target for the summer transfer window.”

Photo: IMAGO

That line alone speaks volumes. Berta, renowned for his shrewd recruitment during his time at Atlético Madrid, is not simply looking to fill gaps — he is aiming to redefine Arsenal’s attacking dynamic. And Gyokeres, with his combination of physical presence, pressing aggression, and finishing touch, fits the brief perfectly.

It’s not just about goals — though his tally certainly grabs attention — but about the way Gyokeres could transform Arsenal’s front line. With Gabriel Jesus often drifting wide and Eddie Nketiah yet to fully convince as a regular starter, the Swede represents a profile Arsenal have lacked for some time.

Newcastle Remain in the Conversation

Arsenal, however, are not alone. Football Transfers add that Newcastle United have been long-time admirers of the striker, dating back to early December.

Their pursuit has changed in tone since, not because of a lack of interest, but due to the commitment to keep hold of Alexander Isak. Mikel Arteta may still see Isak as a dream signing, but Newcastle’s stance is clear — their talisman is not for sale.

Photo IMAGO

Instead, the Magpies are exploring a bolder vision: “The plan? To deploy the duo together, with Isak drifting into a left-sided role reminiscent of Thierry Henry’s days at Arsenal.”

It’s a fascinating idea. Pairing Gyokeres with Isak could unleash a new-look frontline for Eddie Howe, adding variety and unpredictability to Newcastle’s forward line — if, that is, they can lure Gyokeres north.

Forward Thinking at the Emirates

For now, Arsenal are considered front-runners. The timing of Gyokeres’ agents attending the Real Madrid tie at the Emirates is no coincidence. It’s a marquee moment for the club — a demonstration of where Arsenal are, and more importantly, where they want to go.

With Gyokeres turning 27 in June, this summer presents a logical window for him to take the leap into the elite. As Football Transfers note, “he wants to play in and challenge for the biggest competitions in European football.” Arsenal, back in Europe’s top table and pushing domestically, can offer exactly that.

Photo: IMAGO

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

There’s something symbolic about Gyokeres’ agents sitting in the stands at the Emirates while Arsenal host Real Madrid. It feels like the start of something. After seasons of slow rebuilds and near-misses, Arsenal now operate with purpose — and appointing Andrea Berta is proof of that.

Gyokeres brings exactly what this squad needs: a direct, powerful striker with a sharp eye for goal and relentless energy. He’s a pressing machine, and in Arteta’s system, he could thrive. While Jesus offers intelligence and link-up play, Gyokeres would offer a ruthless edge in front of goal.

For many fans, the idea of having a true No.9 who can lead the line, bully defenders, and finish clinically is more than welcome. And with Newcastle circling, Arsenal need to act quickly. If this is Berta’s first big swing, it’s an ambitious — and potentially era-defining — one.