Arsenal Join Race for £65m-Rated Striker Dominic Solanke as Gyokeres Deal Becomes ‘Unlikely’

Arsenal are reportedly in the hunt for a new striker before the transfer window closes, turning their attention to Bournemouth’s Dominic Solanke after facing difficulties with their top target, Viktor Gyokeres.

This development comes as a surprise to Tottenham, who have also been monitoring Solanke as a potential addition to their squad.

The Gunners initially aimed to secure Gyokeres from Sporting CP, but the £86 million release clause in his contract has made a transfer prohibitive.

Despite Gyokeres’ impressive tally of 43 goals across all competitions last season, Arsenal are unwilling to meet Sporting’s demands, prompting them to seek alternative options.

Eddie Nketiah is expected to leave Arsenal this summer, especially with Marseille reportedly shifting their focus to Borussia Dortmund’s Youssoufa Moukoko.

As a result, Mikel Arteta is keen on adding competition for Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus to strengthen the squad in pursuit of the Premier League title.

Solanke, 26, had a standout season with Bournemouth, scoring 19 goals in the Premier League, making him an appealing option for Arsenal.

If he can replicate that form at the Emirates, he could prove to be a game-changing addition.

However, Arsenal will face stiff competition from North London rivals Tottenham, as Spurs manager Ange Postecoglou is also prioritizing the signing of a new center-forward before the window closes.

As the transfer deadline approaches, it remains to be seen whether Arsenal can secure Solanke or if Tottenham will make a strong bid to bring him to their ranks.

The race for the £65 million-rated striker is heating up, adding an intriguing layer to the ongoing transfer saga.