Arsenal set condition for Viktor Gyokeres exit amid interest in Julian Alvarez

Arsenal are prepared to let Viktor Gyokeres leave, but only after they have secured a new high-profile striker, according to TEAMtalk.

The London club will not sanction the Sweden international’s departure until a replacement has been identified and signed. Arsenal’s preferred option remains Atletico forward Julian Alvarez, although the Argentina international is reported to want to continue his career at Barcelona.

That stance leaves the future of Gyokeres dependent on Arsenal’s ability to strengthen their attacking options first. The Gunners are understood to be unwilling to lose their striker without bringing in another star forward to fill the vacancy.

Arsenal are also considering a move for Al-Ahli striker Ivan Toney, although the report makes clear that any potential deal for the England international would have a specific role. Toney would be viewed as a replacement for Gyokeres, rather than as a player brought in to take Kai Havertz’s place in the starting line-up.

The distinction is significant for Arsenal’s recruitment plans. While Toney is among the forwards being considered, he is not being assessed as a direct replacement for Havertz in the team’s first-choice structure. Instead, his possible arrival would be linked to a decision to move on from Gyokeres.

Gyokeres, 28, has played in two matches so far this season but has yet to register a goal or an assist. Despite that early lack of goal involvement, Arsenal’s reported position is that he will remain at the club unless they first complete the signing of another leading striker.

Alvarez remains the most desirable target identified in the report. However, his preference for Barcelona could complicate Arsenal’s plans and leave the club needing to consider alternative options. Toney is one of those alternatives, although his potential role would differ from that of a forward intended to replace Havertz in the starting XI.

For now, Arsenal’s approach means Gyokeres’ future is tied to the outcome of their search for attacking reinforcements. The club are willing to part with the Swedish striker, but only on the condition that a new star forward arrives first.