2 weeks ago
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Arsenal has completed the signing of Viktor Gyokeres from Sporting Lisbon for £63.7 million ($85.6 million), and the Swede will join up with his new teammates on their pre-season tour of Asia.
Gyokeres, who will wear the No. 14 shirt for the Gunners, had been tipped to depart Sporting Lisbon this summer following two remarkably prolific campaigns in Portugal and failed to report for preseason training in a bid to engineer a move away from the Portuguese team.
The transfer is a huge boost to Arsenal's Premier League title aspirations and a concern for Liverpool, as a direct rival has strengthened its attack.
Arsenal made Gyokeres its primary target after switching focus from Benjamin Sesko when the RB Leipzig striker's wage demands became problematic. The Gunners have since been in talks with Sporting, but an agreement has now been struck.
Gunners boss Mikel Arteta said: "We're absolutely delighted to welcome Viktor Gyokeres to the club. The consistency he has shown in his performances and availability have been outstanding, and his goal contributions speak for themselves.
"Viktor has so many qualities. He is a quick and powerful presence up front, with incredible goalscoring numbers at club and international levels.
"He brings a clinical edge with a high conversion rate of chances into goals, with his intelligent movement in the box making him a constant threat.
"We're excited about what Viktor brings to our squad and are looking forward to start working with him. We welcome Viktor and his family to Arsenal."
Gyokeres said: "I always want to score. To be a part of this club and to score in this kit and with this badge in front of all the supporters, I can't wait. It will be an amazing feeling.
"I started here [in England], it feels like a long time ago. I think I've improved a lot since then. Now I want to prove myself for real and perform together with the team."
Gyokeres will make his comeback to England, having previously turned out for Brighton, Swansea, and Coventry City. His displays with the Sky Blues caught the attention of Sporting, prompting the team to secure the striker's signature.
Gyokeres's first competitive appearance for Arsenal is expected to arrive against Manchester United when the Premier League season kicks off on August 17.
Arsenal recognised that its main objective this summer was securing a genuine striker, with Arteta having been forced to improvise with his attacking options.
This has resulted in Kai Havertz frequently spearheading the attack over the last 18 months when available, while Gabriel Jesus has battled fitness issues and inconsistent form.
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