Viktor Gyokeres’ highly anticipated £70 million transfer to Arsenal, a saga that unfolded over weeks of intense negotiation throughout the summer window, culminated in a surprising revelation about the prolific Swedish striker’s actions just prior to his official signing. While fans speculated and rivals pursued, Gyokeres demonstrated an almost prophetic certainty about his move to the Gunners, a confidence rooted in a discreet, strategic step he took days before the deal was sealed.
A mere ten days before he officially put pen to paper on July 26, Viktor Gyokeres established a new London-based promotions company, a subtle yet significant indicator of his unwavering belief in the impending transfer. This entity, named VG9 Productions Ltd, cleverly incorporated his initials and the squad number he famously wore during his impactful two seasons with Sporting Lisbon, underscoring his personal connection to the move and his foresight regarding his future in England.
This pre-emptive business venture speaks volumes about Gyokeres’ mindset amidst the prolonged discussions surrounding his transfer to Arsenal. While external factors, including interest from other European heavyweights, could have cast shadows of doubt, the formation of VG9 Productions Ltd served as a private testament to his conviction. For Arsenal fans, this behind-the-scenes maneuver offers insight into the striker’s commitment even before he donned the club’s colours.
Upon his arrival at the Emirates Stadium, discussions inevitably turned to Gyokeres’ choice of shirt number. Initially, there was widespread expectation that he might opt for the number nine, currently occupied by established forward Gabriel Jesus. However, in a move that resonated deeply with the club’s history, Gyokeres expressed a desire to wear the iconic number fourteen, a jersey immortalized by Arsenal legend Thierry Henry, signaling his ambition and respect for the club’s heritage.
Following the completion of his substantial £64 million transfer fee, Viktor Gyokeres swiftly integrated into the Arsenal squad, joining his new teammates on their pre-season tour in Asia. His debut came against bitter rivals Tottenham Hotspur, where he was afforded valuable minutes off the bench. This early involvement allowed the Swede to begin building crucial match fitness and familiarize himself with Mikel Arteta’s tactical approach, laying the groundwork for the demanding Premier League season ahead.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta openly conveyed his delight at securing Gyokeres, emphasizing the club’s long-standing ambition to sign a proven, high-calibre centre-forward. Arteta lauded the Swedish international’s exceptional consistency, remarkable availability, and outstanding goal-scoring record, highlighting his potent combination of speed, power, and clinical finishing as key attributes that make him a perfect fit for the Gunners’ attacking philosophy.
Adding to the sentiment, Sporting Director Andrea Berta expressed profound satisfaction with the successful acquisition, describing it as an “excellent deal” for Arsenal FC. Berta underscored Gyokeres’ status as an “exceptional talent” who possesses the winning mentality and physical prowess essential for a top-tier striker. Both club officials anticipate Viktor Gyokeres will have a significant impact on the pitch and quickly become an influential figure within the dressing room, elevating Arsenal’s prospects for silverware.
