While Joshua Zirkzee initially seemed like a potential target for Arsenal, recent reports indicate the Gunners’ interest has cooled significantly.
Despite previously scouting the Bologna striker, it appears neither Arsenal nor other Premier League clubs are actively pursuing his €80 million signature at this current time. The focus has seemingly shifted, with Sporting’s Viktor Gyokeres emerging as a more compelling option for Arsenal.
![22yo striker drops out of Arsenal's plans, replacement identified 1 BOLOGNA, ITALY - FEBRUARY 14: Joshua Zirkzee of Bologna FC reacts during the Serie A TIM match between Bologna FC and ACF Fiorentina - Serie A TIM at Stadio Renato Dall'Ara on February 14, 2024 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)](https://dailycannon.com/static/uploads/2024/02/bologna-fc-v-acf-fiorentina-serie-a-tim-scaled-e1708352308476.jpg)
Reports from Italy suggest that Arsenal‘s interest in Bologna‘s striker Joshua Zirkzee, valued at €80 million, is not particularly strong despite of reports to the contrary.
Although Arsenal having scouted him several times, there appears to be no solid intention from The Gunners or any other Premier League club to pursue his signing, with Italian teams currently the favourites.
![22yo striker drops out of Arsenal's plans, replacement identified 2 Sporting Lisbon's Swedish forward #09 Viktor Gyokeres celebrates scoring during the Portuguese League football match between Rio Ave FC and Sporting CP at the Rio Ave FC - Dos Arcos stadium in Vila do Conde, on February 25, 2024. (Photo by MIGUEL RIOPA/AFP via Getty Images)](https://dailycannon.com/static/uploads/2024/02/fbl-por-liga-rio-ave-sporting-scaled-e1709207284774.jpg)
Additionally, Arsenal seems to be evaluating other options, notably Sporting‘s Viktor Gyokeres, who boasts superior statistics and might be available for a similar price. One report even claims Arsenal would be prepared to pay €100m for him.
At the end of February, it was reported that Arsenal were monitoring the Swedish Gyokeres as they had concerns over Gabriel Jesus’s long-term fitness due to his knee problems.
The 25-year-old Sporting CP star has been prolific in the Primeira Liga, establishing himself as a consistent goalscoring threat with 33 goals, and 13 assists, in 38 games this season. His impressive performances have drawn interest across Europe, with the Daily Mail suggesting Arsenal face competition for his signature.
Zirkzee, meanwhile, has 11 goals, with six assists, in 30 games.