Michael Owen has claimed that Arsenal are 'not happy' with Viktor Gyokeres and expects the club to pursue a world-class striker in the upcoming transfer window if one becomes available. The former Liverpool and Real Madrid striker shared his analysis following Arsenal's Premier League title triumph.
Gyokeres Under Scrutiny
Gyokeres joined Arsenal from Sporting CP last summer in a deal worth £64 million. The 27-year-old Sweden international has netted 21 goals in 54 appearances across all competitions during his debut season. Despite this respectable tally, his playing style, technical ability, and effectiveness in high-stakes matches have drawn criticism.
Owen, speaking on Premier League Productions, suggested that Arsenal's style of play may evolve after securing their first Premier League title in 22 years. He indicated that manager Mikel Arteta would not hesitate to strengthen the squad with a world-class attacker.
Owen's Assessment
'They've won it playing like this at the moment, that's not to say they're going to be like this forever,' Owen said. 'Arsenal would love to find another centre-forward – they're not happy with Gyokeres really. They're not happy with a couple of positions.'
He added: 'If someone comes available that's top, if a Thierry Henry becomes available again, they'd move heaven and earth to get somebody like that in. That might change the dynamic of things as well. Okay, they're not the greatest of watches, granted, I'd say that, but that's not to say they'll be like that forever. They might evolve, they might get better.'
Caution Against Over-Spending
Owen also warned Arsenal against over-spending in pursuit of improvement, citing Liverpool's example of spending £400 million in one summer and disrupting team balance. 'They've got to be careful, like a Liverpool, spending £400 million over a summer trying to be even better again, and they ruin what they've got. That's the risk, that's the management, that's the next stage,' he explained.
Title Defense Prospects
Arsenal finished seven points clear of Manchester City at the top of the Premier League. Owen believes the Gunners can retain the title next season, pointing to the struggles of rival clubs. 'We thought about Liverpool last season but I certainly think about Arsenal, you can see them repeating what they've just done. This is a very, very strong, solid, efficient team that you can see they're going to do it again,' he said.
He noted that Liverpool, Chelsea, and Manchester United are all facing challenges, creating an opportunity for Arsenal. 'A lot of the top teams are struggling at the moment. There is an opportunity for Arsenal, if they keep that consistency, which I can't see any reason why they wouldn't. It could be theirs for the immediate future,' Owen concluded.
