Arsenal have decided to retain Viktor Gyokeres and are not prepared to sell the Swedish striker despite growing interest from Barcelona, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano. The Spanish champions turned their attention to Gyokeres after failing to land Atletico Madrid's Julian Alvarez, who had been their primary target throughout the summer.
Barcelona's Interest and Arsenal's Stance
According to teamTALK, Atletico refused to negotiate, leaving Barcelona to consider alternatives. Hansi Flick's side want to strengthen their attack following Ferran Torres' departure to Paris Saint-Germain. Barcelona are yet to make formal contact with Arsenal or the former Sporting Lisbon forward's representatives, though they are preparing to do so.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is reportedly pleased with the 28-year-old and believes his physical profile makes him a valuable option within the squad, Metro UK reports. The Gunners also feel Gyokeres, who scored 21 goals across all competitions in his debut season, will be a stronger contributor in his second year at the club.
Gyokeres' Adaptation and Squad Competition
Gyokeres did struggle to fully adapt to Premier League football in his first campaign, and Kai Havertz reclaimed his starting role once the striker returned from a long-term injury. Havertz started and scored in Arsenal's opening game of the new season against Coventry City and the 3-0 Community Shield victory over Manchester City on Sunday.
While Gyokeres looks set to stay, Arsenal could still bring in another forward before the window shuts on September 1. Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen has emerged as the latest name linked with the north London club.
Arsenal's Squad Overhaul and Osimhen Links
The Gunners are simultaneously looking to reduce squad numbers. Reiss Nelson, Fabio Vieira and Gabriel Jesus are all expected to leave before the deadline. West Ham are in talks over Nelson, while Vieira is looking to return to Hamburg, where he spent last season on loan. Napoli have shown interest in Jesus but are currently unable to match his salary demands.
The futures of Ethan Nwaneri and Gabriel Martinelli have also attracted speculation after neither was included in the matchday squad for Sunday's Community Shield.
Earlier, Legit.ng reported about the ongoing speculation surrounding Osimhen and his potential transfer from Galatasaray to Arsenal, as discussed by transfer expert Fabrizio Romano. Despite interest from several clubs, including Al Hilal, Galatasaray is determined to retain the striker, who played a pivotal role in their successful season, scoring 22 goals across all competitions.
