Viktor Gyökeres Set for Arsenal Medical as Mega Transfer Nears Completion

Viktor Gyökeres is close to becoming Arsenal’s new striker. He has official permission from Sporting CP to travel for his medical with the Premier League club. The Swedish international should arrive in London today and undergo medical exams tomorrow.

WHAT HAPPENED?

After months of speculation, Arsenal and Sporting agreed to a deal worth up to €73.5 million to bring Gyökeres to north London. Sporting granted the player written authorization for his medical in England, the final step before his transfer is completed. Gyökeres, who scored an astonishing 54 goals in 52 matches last season—the highest in any of Europe’s top divisions—was Arsenal’s top target this summer as manager Mikel Arteta sought a genuine number nine to strengthen his attack. Gyökeres is scheduled to join Arsenal’s squad on their pre-season tour once the formalities are finished.

WHY ARSENAL SOUGHT GYÖKERES

Arsenal finished second in the Premier League last season, 10 points behind champions Liverpool. Despite the club’s strong attacking performances, there was constant debate about the need for a true centre forward. Kai Havertz shifted between midfield and attack, while Gabriel Jesus struggled with injuries and finished the season with only limited appearances. Bringing in Gyökeres, described as a “physical machine,” gives Arsenal a prolific, natural striker with proven finishing ability. His success at Sporting follows a breakthrough at Coventry City, where he scored 40 goals in 97 games. At Sporting, he scored 54 goals in all competitions last season and added 10 assists, leading the line with power and consistency.

WHAT COMES NEXT?

With the medical scheduled for Saturday, Gyökeres could sign his contract and be officially announced as an Arsenal player within days. Arsenal’s next pre-season fixture is in Singapore as part of their Asia tour, where Gyökeres is expected to meet the squad and integrate quickly ahead of the new Premier League campaign. The Gunners aim to make another title push, with Manchester City, Liverpool, and Chelsea as their main rivals. Sporting, meanwhile, must replace both Gyökeres and teammate Pedro Gonçalves, who are both expected to depart, after finishing as winners in the Primeira Liga last season—beating Benfica in the last matchday who failed to edge past Braga.