The Sporting CP striker has a €100m release clause, and the Gunners reportedly wouldn’t be against activating it this month.
The same report adds that Mikel Arteta is also an admirer of Brentford forward Bryan Mbeumo, who scored against Arsenal earlier this month.
The 25-year-old has a deal lasting until 2026, so Brentford could look to cash in if they don’t think he’ll extend his contract.
BRENTFORD, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 28: Bryan Mbeumo of Brentford during the Premier League match between Brentford FC and West Ham United FC at Brentford Community Stadium on September 28, 2024 in Brentford, England.
Florian Plettenberg of Sky Sport Germany had reported recently that Mbeumo was on Arsenal’s shortlist for a potential summer transfer, but maybe the recent injuries could see that plan brought forward.
As for Gyokeres, the biggest obstacle is likely the fact that he’ll be available for much less in the summer. The Telegraph previously reported that the striker will be available for £63m at the end of the season, but that Sporting will hold to his €100m (£84m) release clause in the January window.
Arsenal deciding to sign the player now would mean effectively committing £20m+ for six months of matches, plus wages on top of that.
LISBON, PORTUGAL - NOVEMBER 22: Viktor Gyokeres of Sporting CP celebrates after scoring a goal during the Portuguese Cup match between Sporting CP and Amarante FC at Estadio Jose Alvalade on November 22, 2024 in Lisbon, Portugal.
Mbeumo has scored 13 goals and assisted four this season, and he has the advantage of already being Premier League proven. He’s currently the joint-fourth top scorer in the division.
Meanwhile, Gyokeres is having an exceptional campaign with 32 goals and six assists in 30 appearances in all competitions, but the hesitation has always been around the question of whether he can replicate that form outside of Portugal.
The two aren’t necessarily an either/or, given Mbeumo generally operates on the right and Gyokeres plays as a central striker. But it’s extremely unlikely Arsenal would make moves for both this month, so they’ll have to prioritise.
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