Viktor Gyokeres transfer poses major concern for Arsenal in 2026
Arsenal’s pursuit of a decisive striker and Viktor Gyokeres’ form in north London are once again in the spotlight, after former England defender Micah Richards urged the club to consider selling the...
Arsenal’s pursuit of a decisive striker and Viktor Gyokeres’ form in north London are once again in the spotlight, after former England defender Micah Richards urged the club to consider selling the Sweden international if his goal drought persists. Richards argued on The Rest Is Football podcast that Gyokeres has failed to deliver the expected impact since moving from Sporting Lisbon.
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Viktor Gyokeres transfer: Should Arsenal move on?
Richards contended that Gyokeres appears short on confidence and has not produced the end product Arsenal require from a central forward. The pundit, who previously played for Manchester City and the England team, said Arsenal have given Gyokeres ample opportunities to prove himself and suggested a January market re-entry could be prudent if his form does not improve.
When Gyokeres arrived from Sporting Lisbon, he carried a striking record of 97 goals in 102 matches for his former club—a statistic that raised expectations among supporters. Yet those numbers have not yet translated into consistent Premier League goal output, and Richards cited a drop in confidence as a contributing factor.
Why Richards says a change may be needed
Richards highlighted several concerns in his critique: a lack of composure in front of goal, missed opportunities from promising positions, and a perceived erosion of belief that hinders Gyokeres from converting chances. He argued Arsenal require more reliable attacking firepower and depth in forward areas, a need underscored by ongoing injury challenges across the division this season.
Manager Mikel Arteta has frequently leaned on Kai Havertz as the central striker in big matches, a trend that has further complicated Gyokeres’ pathway to regular starts. Richards suggested that Arsenal could shift more of their attacking plans toward Havertz if Gyokeres cannot recapture his form and confidence.
Background: Transfer context and squad options
Gyokeres’ prolific spell at Sporting Lisbon was the primary justification for Arsenal’s investment, with the expectation of a clinical number nine. Since then, Arteta has balanced selection between Gyokeres and Havertz, choosing the option he believes best fits each fixture.
Richards added that if Gyokeres continues to struggle, Arsenal could revisit the January transfer window. The discussion has previously linked the club with Julian Alvarez, and that interest could be revisited as Arsenal seek more consistent attacking options.
It is important to distinguish confirmed facts from opinion: Richards’ comments reflect his personal assessment on a podcast and are not a club statement. Arsenal have not announced any decision regarding Gyokeres’ future.
Impact on Arsenal and what to watch next
If Arsenal decide to move on from Gyokeres, the club will need to weigh transfer-market realities, available funds and overall squad balance. January fixtures are often used to add depth rather than conduct wholesale changes to the frontline, but ongoing form concerns can push clubs toward decisive action.
For Gyokeres, the straightforward path back into the team is clear in principle: consistent starts, goals to rebuild confidence, and improved finishing in matches. For Arsenal, the decisive factor will be whether Arteta and the recruitment team believe Gyokeres can rediscover the form that motivated the signing, or whether reinforcements are necessary.
Fans should monitor upcoming team selections, Gyokeres’ minutes and performance in the coming weeks, and any official statements from Arsenal as the January window approaches. Interest in players such as Julian Alvarez would signal a clear recruitment strategy to address perceived attacking shortcomings.
Richards’ remarks have intensified the ongoing debate among supporters, media and the club until there is clear evidence that Gyokeres can reverse his current form or that Arsenal opt to pursue a different option.
What Happens Next
Arsenal will need to assess Gyokeres’ performances and decide whether to continue backing him or pursue reinforcements in January. The club’s choices will reflect the assessments of Mikel Arteta and the recruitment team, Gyokeres’ response on the pitch, and the availability of suitable targets if a move is contemplated.
Source: Original report
