Viktor Gyokeres breaks silence on Julian Alvarez swap deal speculation

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Cameron Smith | Digital Content Producer

Viktor Gyokeres has confirmed that he was “fully focused on Arsenal” over the summer, despite speculation suggesting that he could leave the club.

The Sweden striker scored 21 goals during his debut campaign at the Emirates Stadium, following his arrival from Sporting CP for €66.9 million, and he played a key role as they won their first Premier League title since 2004.

However, the 28-year-old lost his starting XI place to Kai Havertz during the final few weeks of the season and he was widely tipped to depart the club amid their pursuit of a superstar forward.

Vinicius Junior, Morgan Rogers and Julian Alvarez were all heavily linked with Mikel Arteta’s side over the summer, and reports in Spain suggested that Arsenal were open to including Gyokeres in a swap deal bid for the latter.

As reported at the time, FootballTransfers can confirm that suggestions Arsenal were willing to entertain offers involving Gyokeres in exchange for Alvarez were completely unfounded, and the striker has now confirmed that he never considered leaving the north London giants before Deadline Day.

“Of course, there was a lot of speculation,” Gyokeres admitted to Swedish news outlet SVT Sport (via The Evening Standard) while on international duty with his country. “But I had a full pre-season, and it felt good. I was fully focused on Arsenal. For me, staying was a given. I’m extremely happy at the club.”

However, Gyokeres is yet to start a Premier League match so far this season and he has confirmed his dissatisfaction at his current role.

“Of course, it’s frustrating, no matter where you are,” he said. “You always want to be on the pitch and make a contribution, score goals. It can be frustrating at times, but I just try to do my best when I get the chance and focus on what I can control.”

Analysis: Who could Viktor Gyokeres join if he leaves Arsenal?

Data analytics experts SciSports believe that Bayern Munich, Manchester City and Barcelona represent the best options for Gyokeres if he leaves Arsenal next year, with all three boasting a ‘Club Fit’ score of 78.

Bayern and City have arguably the two best strikers in world football at their disposal - Harry Kane and Erling Haaland - so Gyokeres may be hesitant to join either club due to a lack of guaranteed game time, but he could feasibly become Barcelona’s starting striker if the Blaugrana are interested in a deal.

Hansi Flick’s side have previously been linked with the Sweden international and a deal could suit all parties if Arsenal are able to line up a suitable replacement.