BREAKING NEWS: Mikel Arteta’s decision has unexpectedly boosted Arsenal as Victor Gyokeres has emerged as a priority transfer target.
Arsenal made three signings during the summer transfer window, but two of these new arrivals could miss Sunday’s North London Derby. Mikel Merino is sidelined with a shoulder injury, and Riccardo Calafiori limped off during Italy’s match against France on Friday. Compounding Arsenal’s midfield issues, Declan Rice is suspended for the game against Tottenham, and Martin Odegaard was seen on crutches following an injury sustained during Norway’s victory over Austria. These setbacks have raised concerns about Arsenal’s depth in midfield.
With Fabio Vieira loaned back to Porto, Kai Havertz might need to shift from his false nine role to a midfield position alongside Jorginho and Thomas Partey. Additionally, Arsenal’s match against Tottenham could see Raheem Sterling make his debut after joining on loan. Sterling’s move to Arsenal has been endorsed by his former teammate, Sergio Aguero.
Aguero Praises Sterling’s Move
Sergio Aguero is confident that Sterling will thrive under Mikel Arteta at Arsenal. The winger’s deadline day loan move from Chelsea does not include an option to buy, as reported by football.london. Aguero stated to Stake.com, “I think it’s a great signing for Arsenal. Arteta and Raheem know each other well from their time at City. Mikel will find a way to bring out the best in Sterling. The team is already strong, and Sterling’s arrival strengthens them further.”
Sterling’s role at Arsenal remains to be seen, but his addition could be a game-changer. Having been sidelined at Chelsea, he is expected to get more playing time under Arteta. With Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard both preferring the left wing, Sterling might serve as a rotational backup for Bukayo Saka. Regardless of his exact role, Sterling provides a much-needed boost for Arsenal, who were on the verge of closing the window without adding an anticipated attacker.
Gyokeres Eyes Real Madrid
Arsenal showed interest in Sporting Lisbon striker Victor Gyokeres this summer, but the prolific forward remained in Portugal despite interest from other clubs. Gyokeres has had an impressive start to the season, netting seven goals in five matches, following a standout previous season with 43 goals in 50 appearances.
According to Correio da Manha, there are reports in Spain suggesting that Gyokeres prefers a move to Real Madrid. However, this appears unlikely given Real’s recent investments in players like Kylian Mbappe, Endrick, and Jude Bellingham, along with ongoing links to Erling Haaland. Real Madrid currently relies on Mbappe as their main forward, but the club lacks a top-tier natural striker, prompting speculation that president Florentino Perez might consider Gyokeres as a potential addition.
Football.london notes that while Arsenal could offer Gyokeres more consistent playing time, the allure of Real Madrid remains strong. Whether Real’s interest is genuine is unclear, but if Gyokeres continues his impressive form, Arsenal and other top clubs might face stiff competition for his signature.