Arsenal is in the market for a new forward ahead of the next season, and the club's pursuit has zeroed in on two prolific strikers: Napoli's Victor Osimhen and Sporting Lisbon's Viktor Gyokeres. This search for a fresh attacking option stems from the underwhelming goal tally from Gabriel Jesus and Gabriel Martinelli, who each netted less than 10 goals in the recent Premier League campaign.
Victor Osimhen: A Premier League Prospect?
Victor Osimhen has been a topic of intense speculation. After a stellar 2023 season where Napoli clinched the Serie A title, the Nigerian striker was widely expected to be on the move, particularly with Premier League clubs showing keen interest. However, Napoli's decision to hold onto him has been a calculated risk that could now see them forced to offload him to finance a replacement.
Osimhen’s stats for last season paint a picture of a potent striker: 15 goals and 3 assists in 22 appearances, averaging 3.6 shots per game and winning 1.5 aerial duels per match, according to Whoscored. His market value has soared, and with a release clause set at £109 million, Arsenal faces stiff competition from Chelsea, PSG, and Manchester United. Napoli, eyeing Romelu Lukaku as a potential successor, find themselves in a complex negotiation web, especially since they are reluctant to meet Lukaku’s £38 million asking price.
Viktor Gyokeres: The Emerging Star
On the other side of the equation is Viktor Gyokeres, the Swedish sensation who has taken the Primeira Liga by storm with Sporting Lisbon. Gyokeres’ numbers are nothing short of remarkable: 29 goals and 10 assists in 32 league appearances, alongside an impressive 3.5 shots per game and 1.9 aerials won per match. His impact is further underscored by his 14 Man of the Match awards.
According to Portuguese outlet Leonino, Arsenal is nearing a deal for Gyokeres, with the transfer fee speculated to be in the range of £50-60 million. Mikel Arteta has reportedly earmarked Gyokeres as his top target, a move that suggests Arsenal is keen on injecting fresh firepower into their attack. The 25-year-old’s ability to both score and create goals positions him as a versatile asset who could thrive in the Premier League.
The Stakes and Strategic Moves
For Arsenal, this transfer window is critical. The Gunners’ failure to consistently find the net last season highlighted a glaring weakness that needs addressing if they are to compete at the highest level. Gabriel Jesus and Gabriel Martinelli's combined tally falling short of 20 goals underscores the urgency for a new frontman who can deliver.
Osimhen offers a proven track record in a top European league, with physicality and pace that could adapt well to the Premier League. His high release clause, however, poses a significant financial commitment. Gyokeres, while less expensive, represents a slightly riskier bet due to his experience being primarily in the Primeira Liga and his brief stint in the Championship with Coventry City.