Mikel Arteta is on a mission to bolster Arsenal’s squad with four new acquisitions in the upcoming transfer window following an interest in Viktor Gyökeres. Andrea Berta, the club’s sporting director, has been set the task of ushering numerous new faces to the Emirates Stadium. Since taking the reins from Unai Emery five and a half years ago, Arteta’s silverware tally has been limited. Within months of his appointment, the former Manchester City assistant guided the Gunners to an FA Cup victory over Chelsea at an empty Wembley Stadium. However, Arteta has not added to that major trophy haul or lifted silverware in front of the Arsenal faithful since, aside from a couple of Community Shield triumphs.
Despite transforming Arsenal into a formidable force in European football, Arteta’s efforts have yet to be rewarded with significant accolades. With a new sporting director eager to make a mark, Arsenal are poised to flex their financial muscles in the transfer market. Speaking on NBC Sports, renowned journalist David Ornstein revealed Arsenal’s strategy: “They have plenty on their agenda… They’re looking to renew Thomas Partey’s contract, though there’s no resolution yet. They may also seek a defender after missing out on Dean Hujsen, and a second-choice goalkeeper is on the list as well.”
Ornstein further detailed Arsenal’s forward options, stating, “A decision looms between [Benjamin] Sesko and [Viktor] Gyökeres. Both are exceptional talents, and I expect Arsenal to bring one of them to the Emirates this summer.” Reports suggest Arsenal’s flirtation with Sesko last year didn’t advance as he committed to RB Leipzig amidst uncertainty over Eddie Nketiah’s future. Nonetheless, Arsenal maintain a keen interest in Sesko despite a slight dip in his valuation.
As for Gyökeres, long on Arsenal’s radar, the Swedish international impressed during his spell at Sporting CP, and continues to catch the eye. Though many clubs, including Arsenal, hesitated on a bid last season, Berta is reportedly an admirer, albeit Arsenal are yet to table an official offer.
Ahead of the Gunners’ encounter with Southampton, Arteta stated his ambition to inject “goals and creativity” into his squad this summer. “With the injuries we’ve faced in the forward line, it’s evident we need more firepower and attacking options,” Arteta commented. “We can’t rely solely on existing resources. We aim to enhance our goal-scoring, creativity, and squad depth across various positions.”
READ MORE FOOTBALL TRANSFER NEWS: