Viktor Gyökeres Set to Face Unexpected Competition at Arsenal After Latest Development

Viktor Gyökeres looks poised to complete a landmark £63 million move from Sporting CP to Arsenal this week, but his path to starring in Mikel Arteta’s side is already stirring fresh rivalry behind the scenes.

Big-money arrival with big expectations

Arsenal’s summer splurge has seen them pursue multiple striking options, ultimately landing on the prolific Gyökeres—after monitoring targets like Ollie Watkins and Hugo Ekitiké. The 27-year-old Swedish forward, who has scored a staggering 97 goals in 102 games at Sporting, is expected in London this week to complete a medical ahead of the signing.

Unexpected competition emerges

While Kai Havertz is the primary forward who will challenge Gyökeres for starting duties, another name has quietly re-entered the frame: Gabriel Jesus. The Brazilian striker, sidelined since January due to an ACL injury, could return to full training on grass within months and is targeting a return by October—just in time for Gyökeres to begin pushing for minutes.

Gyökeres likely assumed he’d step straight into Arteta’s first XI, but Jesus’s comeback could alter the pecking order. Jesus, who notched 11 goals and 6 assists in 26 Premier League appearances in 2022–23, will aim to prove he belongs when fit—and might even force a January transfer should minutes not come.

What lies ahead?

• Gyökeres arrives with instant billing and Arsenal’s ambition to challenge rivals.
• Havertz, fresh off a 15-goal season, has bulked up in pre-season and shows no sign of relinquishing his spot. 
• Jesus will have to navigate a difficult return-to-play but presents a seasoned alternative once healthy.

Arteta now has a forward trio—each with distinct strengths—for a long season across Europa League, Premier League, FA Cup, and the Community Shield. The Gunners look ready not just to challenge for silverware, but to foster internal competition that pushes each striker to raise their game.

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