Joe Cole reckons Arsenal should have signed a different player to Gyokeres
Joe Cole has expressed the view that Arsenal should have pursued Victor Osimhen rather than signing Viktor Gyökeres during the summer transfer window. The Gunners had identified the need for a new striker to elevate their squad, and both forwards featured prominently on their shortlist. For much of the window, Arsenal weighed up their options, […] The post Joe Cole reckons Arsenal should have signed a different player to Gyokeres appeared first on Just Arsenal News.

Joe Cole has expressed the view that Arsenal should have pursued Victor Osimhen rather than signing Viktor Gyökeres during the summer transfer window. The Gunners had identified the need for a new striker to elevate their squad, and both forwards featured prominently on their shortlist.
For much of the window, Arsenal weighed up their options, with Gyökeres and Benjamin Šeško considered serious targets. Eventually, the club settled on Gyökeres, securing him after lengthy and, at times, challenging negotiations. The Swedish forward arrives with an outstanding record, having been prolific in the Portuguese league across the last two seasons, where he amassed close to 100 goals. His performances attracted the attention of several leading European clubs, but Arsenal ultimately won the race for his signature.
Cole’s Reservations About the Signing
Despite the excitement surrounding Gyökeres, not everyone is convinced he will replicate his form in England. Joe Cole, in particular, has raised concerns about the move. Speaking to Hayters, he commented, “I think this might be Arteta’s best chance that he’s had. He’s got a centre-forward in, but there’s still a question mark there. It’s not like you’re bringing in a player like… if Arsenal would’ve gone and signed Osimhen, who I’ve seen do it in Italy and in Turkey… This kid [Gyokeres], there is still a question mark.”
Cole’s remarks highlight the uncertainty that often surrounds strikers moving to the Premier League from other European competitions. While Osimhen has proven himself in Serie A with Napoli, Gyökeres has yet to be tested at this level, raising questions about how seamlessly his goal-scoring prowess will translate.

Gyökeres Needs Time
Nevertheless, there is an argument that Gyökeres is being judged prematurely. His blend of physical strength, work rate and finishing ability suggest he possesses the attributes required to succeed in English football, though adaptation will inevitably take time. For Arsenal, patience may be key as their new forward adjusts to the demands of the Premier League.
Cole’s cautionary stance reflects a broader debate among pundits and supporters about the risks of big-money signings from less competitive leagues. Yet for Arsenal, Gyökeres represents a carefully considered investment, and his performances in Portugal provide ample reason for optimism. The coming season will determine whether he can silence those doubts and establish himself as the long-term solution to Arsenal’s striking needs.
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The post Joe Cole reckons Arsenal should have signed a different player to Gyokeres appeared first on Just Arsenal News.