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Topics: Arsenal, Viktor Gyokeres, Premier League, Transfers
Jack Kenmare
Topics: Arsenal, Viktor Gyokeres, Premier League, Transfers
Arsenal are reportedly chasing a move for one of the most sought-after forwards in Europe as summer signing Viktor Gyokeres continues to struggle in front of goal.
Gyokeres, who joined Arsenal from Sporting in a deal worth up to £64 million, has endured a frustrating start to life at the North London club, scoring five times in 21 Premier League games so far this season.
In fact, the 27-year-old has not scored from open play in the league since September, a run of form that has been scrutinised by many.
After netting 97 goals in 102 appearances for Portuguese side Sporting, Gyokeres has clearly struggled to adapt to the demands of Premier League football since joining Mikel Arteta's side.
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However, that would not be an issue for reported transfer target Julian Alvarez, who spent two years at Manchester City before joining Atletico Madrid in the summer of 2024.
Alvarez, who has scored 40 goals in 85 games since joining Atletico, is attracting interest from numerous top clubs, including Chelsea and Barcelona.
Arsenal are also keen as they 'look to go big once again' for another forward, according to a report from TEAMtalk.
In fact, the Gunners are exploring a summer move for Alvarez, with club officials making informal enquiries to determine whether a deal would be possible, as per ESPN.
Andrea Berta, who is Arsenal's sporting director, could play a crucial role in negotiations as he worked at Atletico for more than a decade. He also retains a close relationship with the player's agent and his camp.
Earlier this month, it was suggested that both Arsenal and Chelsea have held talks with intermediaries about a move for Alvarez.
A report from TEAMtalk suggested the Argentine is growing 'increasingly frustrated' with life at Los Colchoneros.
Gary Lineker also mentioned Alvarez's mood at the Spanish club as he spoke about the forward being linked with a switch to Arsenal.
“I saw they were linked with Julian Alvarez, who I know is not entirely happy with life at Atletico,” he said on The Rest is Football podcast.
“Now that is the sort of player you know can handle the big occasion – he’s a World Cup winner for crying out loud. Someone like that at Arsenal would be game over."
Lineker added: “But they do need one or two of these current forwards to start scoring on a reasonably regular basis.”