Last season, Arsenal once again fell just short of their ultimate goal, finishing second in the Premier League for the third consecutive year. Under Mikel Arteta, the Gunners have developed into one of England’s most exciting sides. Despite evident progress, their persistent failure to clinch the title has sparked internal change.

Injuries played a significant role in derailing their 2024/25 campaign. The absence of key players, particularly Bukayo Saka for much of the second half of the season, exposed depth issues and cost Arsenal momentum during critical phases. However, this summer, Arteta—now working closely with new Emirates technical director Andrea Berta—has taken decisive action to bolster the squad. Their transfer strategy has been bold, forward-thinking, and clearly geared toward bringing trophies to North London. Numerous signings have been made to reinforce every area of the pitch. But among them, one name stands out as potentially transformative: Viktor Gyökeres.

For years now, Arsenal have lacked a true out-and-out striker capable of producing 25–30 goals a season. While Gabriel Jesus, Eddie Nketiah, and even Kai Havertz have each had moments of brilliance, none have been consistent enough in front of goal. Gyökeres could be the answer.

Having scored a staggering 97 goals and delivered 28 assists over two years at Sporting Lisbon, Gyökeres arrives in North London as one of Europe’s most prolific forwards. At 27, he’s entering his prime and brings experience, physical presence, and ruthless finishing ability—attributes that Arsenal’s frontline has sorely missed.

Despite strong interest from clubs like Manchester United, Arsenal acted quickly and decisively. They agreed to a deal worth around £64 million, which will be finalised over the weekend. That fee reflects both Gyökeres’ recent output and his potential to lead the line in one of the world’s most competitive leagues.

While some supporters initially hoped to see Alexander Isak in red and white, the signing of Gyökeres could prove even more valuable. Isak, the talented Sweden international and fellow countryman of Gyökeres, has reportedly informed Newcastle of his desire to leave, with Liverpool showing serious interest. But Arsenal had a clear plan, and they believe they’ve landed the better fit.

Even with Gyökeres’ arrival, many still believe the true gem at Arsenal is already on their books: Bukayo Saka. Saka is more than just a fan favourite. At 23 years old, he has developed into one of the Premier League’s elite players and is widely regarded as among the best wingers in world football. Karen Carney, a respected voice in English football, recently said: “It’s scary how good he will be in three or four years.” Few would disagree.

Since emerging from Arsenal’s famed Hale End academy, Saka has gone from promising youngster to world-class performer. His versatility, intelligence, work ethic, and technical brilliance have made him the heartbeat of Arteta’s project. He’s already achieved remarkable numbers, with 263 senior appearances, 70 goals, and 71 assists to his name. His impact during the 2024/25 season was starkly clear—especially during his absence. After Christmas, he missed several key matches through injury, and Arsenal’s attacking fluidity noticeably dropped. Without his creativity and goal threat, the team lacked penetration, and the title push faltered.

Now fully fit again, Saka is expected to play a pivotal role for both club and country in the coming season. Whether in the red of Arsenal or the white of England under Thomas Tuchel, he will be central to any success achieved. Those numbers underline his growth, consistency, and influence. His productivity has increased year after year, and he shows no signs of slowing down.

According to data from CIES Football Observatory, Saka’s value in the current market is £98 million. That places him above both Gyökeres (£68 million) and Isak (£97 million). While Newcastle are reportedly holding out for £130 million for Isak, that figure reflects contractual negotiations and the player’s potential rather than his actual market worth.

Saka, by contrast, is not just about potential. He has already delivered at the highest level, domestically and in Europe. His value is as much a reflection of his present as it is of his future. If any club came knocking for the winger now, they’d need to put up a truly astronomical offer. But Arsenal have no intention of selling. He is the foundation upon which this new team is built.

Saka’ rise is also a credit to the Arsenal academy and Arteta’s development strategy. From Hale End to the Emirates spotlight, Saka has been nurtured carefully, with Arteta giving him both tactical responsibility and freedom to express himself. He has matured under the Spaniard’s watchful eye, becoming not just a brilliant footballer but also a leader. His humility, intelligence, and love for the club have made him the ideal figurehead for a squad bursting with young talent.

Comparing Isak, Gyökeres, and Saka might seem straightforward at first glance, but each brings a unique set of attributes. Isak is graceful, technical, and capable of brilliant individual moments. Gyökeres is powerful, prolific, and an aerial threat. But Saka is arguably the most complete of the three

He scores, assists, defends, leads, and remains available for the majority of the season. Even when not at his best, he draws attention, creates space, and drags defenders out of position. He affects the game in ways that numbers can’t always measure. The fact that his value surpasses that of two top-level strikers underlines how integral he is—not just to Arsenal but to the wider football world.

Arsenal’s recent signings, including Gyökeres, are designed to complement Saka’s strengths. With a reliable striker to feed off his crosses, through balls, and cutbacks, Saka’s assist numbers could skyrocket.

In the modern game, elite teams are built around special players. Manchester City have done it with De Bruyne, Liverpool with Salah, Real Madrid with Bellingham, and now Arsenal with Saka. He is their crown jewel, the player who makes everything tick

While much of the spotlight will focus on Saka and Gyökeres, Arsenal’s broader strategy is worth noting. They have strengthened across the board. Youngsters like Ethan Nwaneri and Reuell Walters are knocking on the first-team door, while the likes of Martin Ødegaard, Declan Rice, and William Saliba continue to develop into world-class performers.

This is not a team reliant on one or two stars. It is a well-balanced, intelligent, and cohesive squad built with purpose. But in every great team, there is one player who can rise above the rest. At Arsenal, that player is Bukayo Saka.

As the 2025/26 season approaches, Arsenal fans have every reason to believe. With Gyökeres leading the line and Saka orchestrating from the flanks, this could finally be the year that Arteta’s side transforms promise into achievement.

The arrival of Gyökeres gives Arsenal the firepower they’ve long needed, but it’s Saka who elevates the team into the realm of greatness. He is, without a doubt, the most valuable piece of Arteta’s puzzle. And if the stars align, Arsenal could be on the brink of something truly special.