Arsenal have decided to retain Viktor Gyokeres despite mounting speculation linking the Sweden international with a move to Barcelona, according to transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano. The Gunners believe the 28-year-old forward will improve in his second season at the club, even as the Spanish champions search for attacking reinforcements following Ferran Torres's departure to Paris Saint-Germain.
Barcelona's Interest and Gyokeres's Role
Barcelona, under manager Hansi Flick, have been keen to bolster their forward line all summer. Their primary target, Atletico Madrid's Julian Alvarez, has been pursued relentlessly, but Atletico have outright refused to negotiate with their La Liga rivals. As a result, Barcelona have identified Gyokeres as an alternative, though they have yet to make formal contact with Arsenal or the player's representatives.
Gyokeres, who joined Arsenal from Sporting Lisbon, scored 21 goals in all competitions last season. However, he struggled to fully adapt to the demands of Premier League football, and once Kai Havertz returned to full fitness after a lengthy injury, the German reclaimed his starting spot. Havertz was preferred from the start in Arsenal's 3-0 Community Shield victory over Manchester City on Sunday, underscoring his current standing in the team.
Arsenal's Stance and Potential Signings
According to Romano, Arsenal are planning to keep Gyokeres and are confident he will improve in his second season. Manager Mikel Arteta is reportedly happy with the striker's performances and contributions, viewing his physical attributes as an asset to the squad. Despite this, Arsenal could still make at least one attacking signing before the transfer window closes on September 1.
The latest name linked with a move to north London is Galatasaray's Victor Osimhen. The Gunners are also expected to trim their squad before the start of September, with Reiss Nelson, Fabio Vieira, and Gabriel Jesus likely to depart. West Ham are in talks to sign Nelson, while Vieira hopes to return to Hamburg, where he spent last season on loan. Jesus is of interest to Napoli, but the Italian club is struggling to meet his salary expectations.
Arteta on Squad Limitations
The futures of Ethan Nwaneri and Gabriel Martinelli have also been the subject of speculation after they were left out of Sunday's matchday squad. Asked about their absences, Arteta told TNT Sports: 'It's really sad not to have their availability. I've been fighting with the Premier League to extend and accommodate more players in the squad because they deserve to be in the squad, there's no question. Ethan [Nwaneri] and Marli [Salmon] as well, who has had the whole pre-season with us. Hopefully we can change that rule so players can enjoy on the pitch and can be an option to play and contribute to the team going forward.'
As the transfer window enters its final weeks, Arsenal's focus remains on squad cohesion and potential additions, with Osimhen emerging as a key target. The club's decision to keep Gyokeres signals confidence in his development, while Barcelona's interest may yet prompt further negotiations.
