Arsenal shift focus to Gyokeres as Isak pursuit stalls

Arsenal are ramping up their interest in Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres as they search for a new centre-forward this summer, according to The Athletic.

Newcastle United do not want to entertain offers for Alexander Isak, especially after winning the League Cup. The Gunners are reassessing their options in the transfer market.

Newly appointed Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta likes Gyokeres. The Swedish striker is now expected to be a key name under consideration when the transfer window opens.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta remains an admirer of Isak, but Newcastle have made it clear they have no intention of letting their prized asset leave St James’ Park.

Any deal to sign the Swedish international would require a staggering fee, which Arsenal are unlikely to be able to afford.

RB Leipzig star Benjamin Sesko has also been extensively scouted. He is a potentially more affordable alternative. Arsenal considered a move for the highly-rated young striker last summer.

However, it is unclear whether Arsenal will move forward with a bid, as Sesko has drawn interest from multiple European clubs.

Gyokeres has emerged as a more realistic target. Since his move from Coventry City to Sporting in 2023, the 26-year-old has developed into one of Europe’s most prolific forwards.

Gyokeres has netted 30 goals and six assists in 26 Primeira Liga appearances this term to keep Sporting CP at the top of the table.

He spearheaded them to the title last summer and won the Primeira Liga Player of the Season award.

Arsenal were able to gauge Gyokeres first-hand when they faced Sporting last year. He did not score but was a handful for William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes.

He would be a massive upgrade on Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus, giving the Gunners the lethal striker they desperately need.

Many people believe they have failed to sustain their Premier League title challenge this season because they did not have a top striker in the squad. Gyokeres could be a game-changer for next term.