Viktor Gyökeres could be the missing piece Arsenal need to truly compete with Premier League heavyweights Liverpool and Manchester City, according to football pundit and former manager Alan Pardew.
Speaking on talkSPORT, Pardew endorsed Arsenal’s potential move for the prolific Swedish striker, insisting that the player would be a game-changer for the Gunners and could close the gap at the top of the table.
Arsenal have ramped up their transfer activities in recent days, making key additions to strengthen their squad. The North London side recently finalized a deal for experienced goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga and officially unveiled midfielder Martin Zubimendi.
However, Mikel Arteta’s side is not stopping there. The club continues to be linked with high-profile moves for Sporting CP’s Gyökeres and Chelsea winger Noni Madueke.
Initially, Arsenal had their sights set on RB Leipzig’s forward Benjamin Šeško, but recent developments indicate that Gyökeres has now become their primary target.
Reports suggest that negotiations are progressing swiftly, and the club has already reached a personal agreement with the Swedish international.
If the transfer is completed—potentially costing up to £69 million—Pardew believes Gyökeres would immediately boost Arsenal’s attacking power and increase their chances of winning major trophies.
Pardew highlighted Arsenal’s struggles in recent seasons to convert their title-contending performances into silverware.
He emphasized that while the Gunners boast a talented and creative midfield, they have lacked a consistent, physically imposing goal-scorer capable of delivering in big moments. According to Pardew, Gyökeres fits that mold perfectly.
“What stands out about Gyökeres isn’t just his goal-scoring instinct, which Arsenal have sorely missed, but also his impressive fitness record,” Pardew explained.
“He’s a durable and powerful player. I saw him plenty of times during his stint at Coventry, and he always impressed me with his strength and physicality.”
Pardew also pointed out that Gyökeres is versatile in attack—strong in aerial duels and capable of holding up play with the ball at his feet.
He believes that with the creative support Arsenal already have in abundance, Gyökeres would thrive, getting numerous scoring opportunities and making the most of them.
In conclusion, Pardew stated that if Arsenal manage to finalize the deal, Gyökeres’ arrival would not only address a critical weakness but also put the club in serious contention alongside title favorites Manchester City and Liverpool.
