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<p>Leading Goal Scorer in Europe's Top Leagues</p>
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<img alt="Viktor Gyökeres deal settled by Arsenal - Can the Swede maintain his impressive goal-scoring record in the Premier League?"
src="https://tmssl.akamaized.net//images/foto/galerie/viktor-gyokeres-sporting-2024-imago1053435893-1730882407-153506.jpg"
title="Viktor Gyökeres deal settled by Arsenal - Can the Swede maintain his impressive goal-scoring record in the Premier League?">
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<p><span>©IMAGO</span></p>
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<p>Arsenal appears poised to finally acquire a new striker. The north London club has faced criticism for failing to invest in a new no. 9, but reports suggest they are close to finalizing a deal for Sporting's goal machine, Viktor Gyökeres. As reported by <em>The Athletic</em>, personal terms have been agreed for a five-year contract, with the initial fee set at €63.5 million plus an additional €10 million in potential add-ons. Manager Mikel Arteta is eager to expedite the process before the squad's pre-season training commences this July.</p>
<p>Previously, Arsenal was attempting to secure RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko; however, the club's unwillingness to adjust their asking price led the Gunners to pivot towards Gyökeres. The club's new Sporting Director, Andrea Berta, has long admired the Swedish international, who joined Sporting from Coventry City for €24 million in 2023 and has consistently delivered stunning goal-scoring performances. With a current market value of €75 million, Gyökeres has outscored all players in Europe's top-10 leagues since his arrival at Sporting. The question now is whether the 27-year-old can replicate this prolific form in the Premier League, known for its competitive edge. Insights from Portuguese football experts will help shed light on this.</p>
<h2>Can Viktor Gyökeres Maintain His Goal-Scoring Prowess in the Premier League?</h2>
<p>The graphic above showcases that Gyökeres boasts an impressive tally of 68 goals in 66 games over the last two seasons, more than any other player in Europe’s top leagues. He is closely followed by Bayern Munich’s Harry Kane, who has scored 62 goals. However, these statistics should not lead to assumptions about Gyökeres' automatic success at Arsenal. It's important to consider that Liga Portugal doesn't match the competitive standard of the Premier League. Moreover, Gyökeres has not played in any of the top five leagues throughout his career.</p>
<p>Also noteworthy is that 17 of his 68 goals have come from penalties. That said, Arteta has previously adapted players to formidable roles, including midfielder Mikel Merino and striker Kai Havertz, who both thrived under his management. There is a strong belief that Arteta can harness the abilities of a natural goal scorer like Gyökeres, allowing him to perform at his best.</p>
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<p>Player Comparison</p>
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<p>€75.00m</p>
<p>Market Value</p>
<p>€70.00m</p>
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<p>Centre-Forward</p>
<p>Position</p>
<p>Centre-Forward</p>
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<p>Jun 30, 2028</p>
<p>Contract until</p>
<p>Jun 30, 2029</p>
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<p><span>Full Player Comparison</span></p>
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<p>According to Gonçalo Tristão Santos, <em>Transfermarkt's</em> Area Manager in Portugal, Gyökeres possesses significant strengths as a physically dominant striker with excellent movement, especially during transitions. His notable abilities include explosive acceleration, strong ball-carrying skills, and instinctive finishing inside the box. Despite his size, Gyökeres is surprisingly quick, often outpacing defenders on counter-attacks. He is also skilled at holding up the ball and facilitating play with teammates. While Arsenal typically dominates possession, which may limit his counter-attacking opportunities, his hold-up play will be crucial.</p>
<p>On the other hand, Santos notes that Gyökeres can sometimes struggle with his first touch under pressure, and while he can pass adequately, that isn’t one of his standout skills. Nonetheless, Santos regards Gyökeres as one of the top strikers in Liga Portugal’s recent history, comparing him to greats like Mário Jardel and Radamel Falcao. He also draws parallels between Gyökeres and Premier League's Alexander Isak, emphasizing that both exhibit the capability to drift wide, intelligently attack space, and finish with composure. Although Gyökeres is seen as more aggressive, both players bring mobility and unpredictability, especially when challenging high defensive lines.</p>
<p>Gyökeres has many attributes that could make a significant impact in the English top-flight, but the main question remains whether he can seamlessly adapt to the higher level of play. Santos remains optimistic, stating that Gyökeres has proven he can handle physical leagues, has improved tactically and technically at Sporting, and with adequate support, he could thrive in a strong team like Arsenal. The anticipated fee of around €70 million is substantial, yet, given the current market and Gyökeres’ potential contribution, it may prove to be a wise investment.</p>
<p>As the 27-year-old Swede arrives in north London, expectations will be high. Arsenal needs impactful results immediately, and they will be counting on Gyökeres to extend his exceptional form in Portugal to the Premier League, helping the club strive for a major trophy once again.</p>
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