Arsenal’s record signing Viktor Gyokeres has begun training with his new teammates in Singapore, just days after completing his €76 million move from Sporting Lisbon. The Swedish striker flew straight to join the Gunners’ pre-season tour hours after finalising the transfer over the weekend.
Club photos released on Tuesday showed the 27-year-old integrating smoothly with the squad during their final Singapore session before departing for Hong Kong. Gyokeres watched from the stands as Arsenal edged Newcastle United 3-2 on Monday, but has now taken his first steps on the pitch wearing the famous red and white jersey.
The training session saw the powerful forward exchanging jokes with teammates and participating in drills under the Singapore sun, as manager Mikel Arteta put the squad through their paces ahead of Thursday’s high-profile friendly against North London rivals Tottenham.
Gyokeres’ arrival provides Arsenal with a new attacking dimension following last season’s struggles for consistent goal threat. The striker’s physical presence and proven scoring record – 54 goals last campaign – offers Arteta an alternative to midfielders Kai Havertz and Mikel Merino who often deputised up front.
With the squad now travelling to Hong Kong for their final Asia Tour fixture, attention turns to whether Gyokeres will make his debut against Spurs. The Swede’s adaptation will be closely monitored as Arsenal prepare for their Premier League opener against Manchester United on August 17.
Club sources indicate Gyokeres has settled quickly, with teammates impressed by his work ethic during initial sessions. His signing represents a significant statement of intent from the Gunners as they seek to challenge for major honours this season.
The Tottenham friendly offers an early opportunity for fans to glimpse Arsenal’s new attacking spearhead in action, with Arteta likely to give minutes to his big-money acquisition as preparations intensify for the new campaign.
