Arsenal's decision to sign striker Viktor Gyokeres for £64 million last summer has been labeled a mistake by former England defender Joleon Lescott, who insists the Gunners should have pursued alternative Premier League targets instead.
Gyokeres' Underwhelming Start at Arsenal
Since his high-profile move from Sporting, Gyokeres has struggled to replicate his prolific form in Portugal, where he scored nearly a goal per game. In the Premier League, the 27-year-old Swedish international has managed just eight goals in 25 appearances, leading to criticism from fans and pundits alike.
Although Gyokeres has shown some improvement since the New Year, his inconsistent performances have even seen him dropped from the starting lineup in key matches. Lescott argues that this is clear evidence Arsenal made an error in their recruitment strategy.
Lescott's Preferred Alternatives
Speaking to Sky Bet, Lescott named two strikers he believes would have been superior signings for Arsenal. Joao Pedro, who joined Chelsea for £60 million, has scored 13 goals this season, while Hugo Ekitike, acquired by Liverpool for under £80 million, has netted 15 times across all competitions.
"I thought Viktor Gyokeres was brought in to start for Arsenal," Lescott stated. "You're not spending that amount of money, having identified that position, for him not to play. Surely, he's been brought in to play in all the big games."
He added, "It's easy to say now that Arsenal should have gone for Hugo Ekitike. Joao Pedro is another striker I don't know why Arsenal didn't buy."
Broader Struggles in Arsenal's Squad
Gyokeres is not the only summer signing facing scrutiny. Eberechi Eze, who joined from Crystal Palace for £60 million, has also endured a difficult period at the Emirates Stadium. Lescott noted that while Eze has found his position, he has yet to establish a consistent rhythm, attributing this to the heightened pressure of performing for a top club.
"His struggles are just down to current form – we can get carried away and think, 'It's never going to work'," Lescott explained. "Having gone there and now needing to perform is slightly different when you've previously been given the freedom to make mistakes."
Recent On-Field Disappointments
Arsenal's issues were highlighted in a recent 2-2 draw with bottom-placed Wolves, where they squandered a two-goal lead. Gyokeres started the match but was substituted shortly after Wolves' opener, having failed to make an impact. Eze, who came on as a substitute, also struggled to influence the game.
This result has put pressure on Mikel Arteta's side in the title race, with Arsenal currently five points clear of Manchester City but having played one more game. Their lead could shrink to just two points by the time they face north London rivals Tottenham on Sunday, depending on Manchester City's result against Newcastle United.
Implications for Arsenal's Season
The criticism of Gyokeres and other signings raises questions about Arsenal's transfer strategy and their ability to challenge for the Premier League title. With key players underperforming, the Gunners may need to reassess their approach in future windows to maintain their competitive edge.
As the season reaches its climax, Arsenal's recruitment decisions will continue to be a focal point of discussion among fans and analysts, especially if their title hopes falter due to these perceived missteps.
