New Arsenal signing Viktor Gyökeres has confirmed he turned down interest from other top European clubs before completing his €73 million transfer to the Premier League side.
The Swedish striker was one of the most sought-after forwards in Europe following a prolific spell at Sporting CP, where he scored a staggering 97 goals in 102 appearances.
Both Manchester United and Juventus were reportedly keen to land the former Brighton, Coventry, and Swansea City forward, but it was Arsenal who won the race.
Speaking during his first official interview with the club on their pre-season tour of Asia, Gyökeres admitted that while he had other offers, joining the Gunners was an easy decision.
“Yes, I think you can always have a decision about your future,” he said.
“Of course there were other clubs as well, but I didn’t feel it was a difficult choice for me this time.”
Gyökeres also reflected on his return to England and his long-standing ambition to play in the Premier League.
“I don’t think it was always on my mind [to come back to England]. But of course that could have been an option when I was in Portugal, to come back.
Because obviously it’s the best league in the world. So of course that was always a goal — to play in the Premier League. So when I felt it was the right time, I didn’t hesitate to come back.”
The 26-year-old is expected to bolster Mikel Arteta’s attacking options as Arsenal look to mount another serious title challenge in the upcoming season.
