Arsenal's pursuit of a new striker has culminated in the near-completion of a deal for Viktor Gyokeres, but the Swedish forward is expected to shoulder significantly more pressure than Benjamin Sesko might have faced. The Gunners initially targeted Sesko, but negotiations with RB Leipzig fell through, prompting the club to shift focus to Gyokeres, who is set to join from Sporting CP for a fee of €73.5 million (£63.7 million), including add-ons.
While both players would have faced high expectations at the Emirates, Gyokeres, at 27, is under even greater scrutiny. Unlike the 22-year-old Sesko, who would have had time to develop and adapt, Gyokeres is in his prime and will be expected to deliver immediately. His experience against top-tier English clubs in the Champions League, including Arsenal, is seen as an advantage, but it also raises the bar for his performance.
Analysts suggest that Gyokeres will be judged on a higher goal-scoring benchmark compared to what would have been expected of Sesko. While Sesko might have been projected to score around 20 goals in his debut season, Gyokeres is anticipated to net at least 25, assuming he remains injury-free. This heightened expectation stems from his age and the fact that he is already at the peak of his career.
Arsenal's attacking options are further bolstered by the presence of Kai Havertz, who remains a key figure in Mikel Arteta's plans. With the transfer window still open, the Gunners could add more firepower to their squad. However, Gyokeres is expected to be the focal point of Arsenal's attack, backed by a stronger supporting cast than he had at Sporting CP.
As Gyokeres prepares to make the move to London, the spotlight will undoubtedly be on him to justify his hefty price tag and meet the lofty expectations that come with being Arsenal's new number nine.
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