Former Newcastle United manager Alan Pardew has made a big claim about Arsenal striker Viktor Gyokeres.
After much back and forth with Sporting this summer, Arsenal agreed a £64m deal for Viktor Gyokeres.
Rio Ferdinand has doubts over Gyokeres and his ability to perform in the Premier League.
However, Arsenal fans already love the forward, who made his debut on Thursday against Tottenham Hotspur in a pre-season friendly.
Michael Owen has praised Gyokeres following his transfer, and Alan Pardew has also made a big claim about the attacker.
Photo by Qin Zhicheng/VCG via Getty ImagesAlan Pardew praises Arsenal deal for Viktor Gyokeres
Arsenal have been without a recognised number nine for some time, seeing Kai Havertz fill that role during much of 2024/25.
But after he scored over 50 goals for Sporting last season, several of which came in the Champions League, Pardew thinks the North London side have made a big signing.
The former manager was asked about the Gyokeres deal while speaking on talkSPORT this week.
And he claimed that the Gunners’ capture of the Swede is the ‘signing of the summer’ in terms of a striker.
He explained why, saying: “I’m a big fan. I think it’s the signing of the summer in terms of a striker because I think he does all the jobs.
“He runs the channels, he’s good into feet, he’s finishing off all three actions, the left foot, right foot, head, is good.
“It’s a great signing for Arsenal, really great. Been a lot of noise around it, but they finally got it over the line.”
How Viktor Gyokeres compares to Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester United signings
Arsenal are not the only side to spend big on new attacking options this season.
Liverpool have confirmed the signing of Hugo Ekitike after he had interest from Newcastle United.
Chelsea paid big money to sign Liam Delap from Ipswich Town earlier in the window.
And while they are not out-and-out nines, Manchester United have brought in Bryan Mbemou and Matheus Cunha to add firepower to their attack.
PlayerGoalsViktor Gyokeres54Hugo Ekitike22Liam Delap12Bryan Mbeumo20Matheus Cunha15
Gyokeres outscored them all last season, though he was playing in what some might argue is a traditionally weaker league.