Twist: “Extraordinary” £60m+ star now plans to snub Man Utd to join Arsenal

Football News

According to recent reports, there`s a significant development in Arsenal`s pursuit of an `extraordinary` player valued at over £60 million. This star is now said to prefer joining the Emirates Stadium club rather than moving to Old Trafford.

Starmer Insists Arteta Must Sign New Striker

Calls for Mikel Arteta to sign a new striker have been frequent, and now Keir Starmer has shared his opinion on Arsenal`s strategy for the summer transfer window.

The Prime Minister stated: `I think one or two extra players, I would not go for widespread change, a striker. That is the one that leaps out and it has been for a little while now.`

`It looks like we are strengthening the midfield, which is good, and the back four is quite solid, perhaps needing a bit more depth due to injuries, but it is that upfront striker role where we need reinforcements. We need to add there.`

The Gunners certainly have several options, with RB Leipzig`s Benjamin Sesko and Sporting CP`s Viktor Gyokeres considered primary targets. Sporting director Andrea Berta has reportedly already discussed a potential deal for Gyokeres.

Earlier this week, reports suggested Gyokeres favored a summer move to Manchester United, aiming for a reunion with his former manager Ruben Amorim. However, the situation has now taken a turn.

According to The Mirror, the Sporting CP striker would now reportedly prefer a switch to the Emirates Stadium over Old Trafford. A move to the Premier League is also seen as more appealing to him than transfers to Spain or Italy.

Viktor Gyokeres in Sporting CP kit

If the Swedish international could choose his next club, Arsenal would reportedly be his top preference. Sporting CP is said to be willing to allow his departure for a fee slightly exceeding £60 million.

Gyokeres Could Be An `Extraordinary` Signing For Arsenal

As mentioned earlier, the 27-year-old is considered one of Arsenal`s primary targets this summer, alongside Sesko. There are indications that the Sporting star might be the preferable option, particularly given his impressive goal-scoring record.

Comparison statistics for Sesko vs Gyokeres

Sporting manager Rui Borges has naturally been highly impressed by the Swedish international`s displays, stating: `There are no adjectives to describe Viktor. He is an extraordinary striker, very important to our team.`

However, while the Stockholm-born forward is certainly not old, Sesko is five years younger. The Slovenian has also demonstrated his ability in an arguably more challenging league and recorded a total of 21 goals and six assists across all competitions in the 2024-25 season.

Consequently, Arsenal faces a significant decision this summer. Nevertheless, it is positive news that Gyokeres is reportedly open to joining the Emirates Stadium, despite attracting considerable interest from other European clubs.

Rupert Atherton
Rupert Atherton

Rupert Atherton, 45, veteran sports writer based in Sheffield. Expert in Olympic sports and athletics, tracking British competitors year-round rather than just during major events. His distinctive reporting style combines meticulous research with engaging storytelling.

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