Arsenal face a challenging task in their pursuit of the Premier League title, sitting nine points behind leaders Liverpool after 11 games. While their position may seem daunting, the team still has plenty of opportunities to build momentum, particularly with a series of tough matches followed by a more favorable run through the festive period.
The January transfer window is fast approaching, and many believe that Arsenal must strengthen their squad if they are to keep their title hopes alive. The two positions most urgently in need of reinforcements are a central forward and a versatile attacker who can cover both the wings and centrally, in case of another injury to Martin Ødegaard.
One player repeatedly linked with Arsenal is Viktor Gyokeres, whose impressive performances have caught the attention of fans and scouts alike. However, despite strong interest, Arsenal have remained relatively quiet about any formal pursuit of the Swedish forward. During the summer transfer window, the club was reported to have scouted Gyokeres, but financial constraints prevented them from making a serious move. It wasn’t until the final day of the window, when the sales of Eddie Nketiah and Aaron Ramsdale freed up funds, that Arsenal had more financial flexibility.
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Now, with a clearer budget heading into the winter window, the Gunners are better positioned to make a signing. However, any move for Gyokeres may come at a high price. Sporting CP president Frederico Varandas has made it clear that the club will not entertain a winter move for the player unless his release clause—rumored to be around €100 million (£83 million)—is met.
“I can’t promise anything,” Varandas said regarding Gyokeres’ potential January exit. “If a club arrives and pays the release clause, and if he wants to go, then he will leave. But I don’t think this will happen in January.”
While some had speculated that Gyokeres might be available at a lower price in the summer, it seems that Sporting CP will hold out for the full amount if they are to let him go this winter.
Arsenal’s need to strengthen their squad this winter is clear, with significant resources now available for investment. The question is whether the club will make a serious push for Gyokeres, or if they will turn their attention to other options. With sporting director Edu Gaspar’s recent resignation, it remains to be seen how this might impact Arsenal’s plans for the January market. However, many expect that much of the groundwork for the transfer window has already been laid.