Arsenal given five reasons to sign perfect Ivan Toney alternative as Edu transfer priority clear

Arsenal have been given five reasons to sign Viktor Gyokeres this summer instead of Ivan Toney. The Brentford ace was heavily linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium in the January transfer window as Mikel Arteta looked to further bolster his attacking options.

But, with Toney only recently returning to action following his ban, the Gunners postponed their pursuit for a frontman. While Arsenal opted against signing a striker last month, Arteta reportedly remains determined to strengthen his frontline.

In fact, the north Londoners have broadened their search, casting their net in Portugal. According to Portuguese publication A Bola, Arsenal sent scouts to the José Alvalade Stadium to watch Sporting CP face Benfica in the Taça de Portugal semi-final first-leg.

The report states that the Gunners were also joined by AC Milan, who both kept tabs on Gyokeres – and he didn't fail to impress. The 25-year-old striker doubled the home side's lead shortly after the break before Benfica pulled one back moments later.

Gyokeres, who sees his contract at Sporting expire in 2028, has featured 21 times in the Primeira Liga this season, scoring 17 goals and providing seven assists. Not only has the Sweden international fired Ruben Amorim's side to the top of the table, he's also led Sporting to the Europa League knockout stages.

Not only does he pass the eye test, but his underlying statistics are just as brilliant. In the Portuguese top flight this term, Gyokeres has recorded the most goal contributions, won back possession in the final third more than anybody else, won the most fouls, won the most lay-offs and won the most cut-backs.

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