Gyökeres Could Leave Arsenal in January

Viktor Gyökeres is reportedly considering leaving Arsenal during the January transfer window due to his lack of playing time. The Gunners' interest in Julián Álvarez could also influence the Swedish striker's future.

From Premier League Champion to Arteta's Backup

Just over a year ago, Viktor Gyökeres arrived at Arsenal with the responsibility of becoming the striker Mikel Arteta needed. Today, the situation looks very different. The Swedish international has lost his place in the team, and questions are beginning to emerge about his future in London.

According to TEAMtalk, the 28-year-old forward is reportedly willing to pursue a move during the January 2027 transfer window, mainly because of his limited opportunities this season.

The situation is particularly surprising considering that Gyökeres played an important role in Arsenal's historic Premier League title triumph during the 2025-26 campaign.

The striker joined from Sporting CP in the summer of 2025 after establishing himself as one of European football's most prolific goalscorers. During his first season with the Gunners, he scored 21 goals across all competitions, including 14 in the English top flight.

His goals helped Arsenal secure their first Premier League title in 22 years and reach the UEFA Champions League final.

However, his impressive debut campaign has not been enough to secure a regular place in the starting lineup.

Why Does Gyökeres Want to Leave Arsenal?

One of the Swedish striker's biggest challenges is the competition from Kai Havertz, who has become Arteta's preferred option to lead the attack.

The Spanish manager particularly values the German international's ability to contribute to build-up play, link up with his teammates, and create space for players making runs from deeper positions.

Those qualities have helped Havertz establish himself as a regular starter, while Gyökeres has been forced to settle for appearances off the bench.

The striker has yet to start a Premier League match during the 2026-27 season, a situation that contrasts sharply with his importance to the team last year.

What makes the situation even more surprising is that his lack of playing time at Arsenal has not affected his performances for Sweden in the same way. During the recent international break, the forward scored four goals in the UEFA Nations League, demonstrating that he has not lost his goalscoring touch.

The issue, therefore, appears to involve more than his current form. It also reflects the role he occupies within Arteta's tactical system.

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Julián Álvarez Could Further Complicate His Future

Gyökeres' situation is also connected to Arsenal's plans to strengthen their attack.

According to TEAMtalk, the London club remain interested in Julián Álvarez, the Atlético Madrid striker, after exploring a potential move during the previous summer transfer window.

The Argentine international was also linked with Barcelona, although he ultimately remained with the Spanish club.

The possibility of signing Álvarez represents another concern for Gyökeres, who could find his opportunities even more limited if another high-profile striker arrives.

The club would also reportedly be willing to consider selling the Swedish forward if the financial terms help fund the signing of a new attacker.

For now, there are no officially confirmed negotiations or public decisions from Arsenal regarding his departure.

Atlético Madrid Among Gyökeres' Potential Destinations

The January transfer window could provide a fresh opportunity for the Swedish striker.

Atlético Madrid are reportedly among the clubs monitoring his situation. According to the same report, the Spanish side had already expressed interest during the summer, when discussions took place concerning Julián Álvarez's future.

There is also reported interest from clubs in the Premier League, Serie A, and Bundesliga, although no formal offers have been confirmed.

For Gyökeres, the priority would be to regain the regular playing time he has lost in London and once again become an important figure in a team's sporting project.

Meanwhile, Arteta must decide whether he can still bring the best out of the striker who helped Arsenal conquer English football or whether the January transfer window will bring an early end to a chapter that began with enormous expectations.

Three Key Takeaways

Viktor Gyökeres is reportedly considering leaving Arsenal in January due to his lack of starts in the Premier League.
Kai Havertz has established himself as Mikel Arteta's preferred option, while the club remain interested in Julián Álvarez.
Atlético Madrid are among the Swedish striker's potential destinations, although no transfer has been officially confirmed.