Arsenal are set for a busy summer transfer window as Mikel Arteta looks to bolster his squad for a renewed Premier League title challenge and a deeper run in the UEFA Champions League. While signing a proven striker remains the club’s top priority, reports suggest the Gunners are also aiming to reinforce the flanks—possibly making a big-money move for a world-class winger.
Nico Williams or Rodrygo? Arsenal’s Left-Wing Dilemma
Athletic Bilbao’s electric winger Nico Williams has emerged as Arsenal’s primary target for the wide role. The Spain international, known for his blistering pace and creativity, has a £48 million release clause—a fee that Arsenal could be willing to activate.
However, the North London side have also been linked with a more glamorous name: Real Madrid star Rodrygo. The Brazilian forward, who has been instrumental in Los Blancos’ recent domestic and European success, is reportedly valued at around £84 million. A move for Rodrygo would represent a marquee signing, potentially replacing the underperforming Gabriel Martinelli on the left and forming a dynamic wide pairing with Bukayo Saka on the opposite flank.
Former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson believes such a move would be a significant statement of intent from the Gunners. Speaking to Football Insider, he said:
“Rodrygo is a wide player – they need a number nine, but if you sign him and a number nine, that’s a real statement. What it would cost you to get Rodrygo, and whether he’d want to go to Arsenal, is a different story. But the need for a striker is urgent.”
He added:
“With Saka on the right and Rodrygo on the left, that’s one hell of a wide pairing to play behind a world-class number nine.”
Viktor Gyokeres: Arsenal’s Prime Target for the No.9 Role
While the focus has intensified on Arsenal’s winger targets, the most pressing need remains up front. The Gunners have lacked a clinical centre-forward capable of consistently converting chances—a key reason they fell short in the title race last season. That’s where Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres comes into the picture.
The Swedish striker has had a sensational season in Portugal, scoring 38 goals in 32 league appearances, and has firmly placed himself on Arsenal’s radar. Sporting director Andrea Berta is reportedly a huge admirer of the 25-year-old, and the club sees him as a long-term solution to their goal-scoring woes.
With Manchester United previously showing interest but now seemingly shifting focus toward Wolves forward Matheus Cunha, Arsenal appear to be in pole position to land Gyokeres. United are expected to finalise a move for Cunha, who has expressed a preference for Old Trafford despite Arsenal’s late approach.
A Summer of Ambition at the Emirates
Mikel Arteta has made it clear that Arsenal are no longer content with being title challengers—they want to be champions. To do that, they need to upgrade in key areas, and a summer involving both Rodrygo and Gyokeres would be a significant step forward.
Signing both players could cost well over £130 million, but it would send a clear message to rivals: Arsenal mean business. With Champions League football secured and a strong core already in place, the Gunners are now just a few elite signings away from building a squad capable of dominating both domestically and in Europe.
