(4-4-2) potential Arsenal dream lineup with Viktor Gyokeres and Alexander Isak as transfer messages sent
Newcastle’s Alexander Isak and Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres were linked with a move to Arsenal during the summer transfer window. Mikel Arteta was keen to strengthen his forward line and both players were among those that the Gunners had been tracking over a potential transfer.
However, Arsenal ended the summer without signing at least one new recognised centre forward. That has led to disappointment from some section of the fanbase, though Arteta has seemed to trust Kai Havertz to lead the line with Gabriel Jesus, who is currently out injured, waiting in the wings.
Now, both Isak and Gyokeres have showed why the Gunners were interested in them, after impressing for Sweden against Azerbaijan on Thursday. The duo started as a front-two for Jon Dahl Tomasson’s side with Nottingham Forest’s Anthony Elanga and Tottenham’s Dejan Kulusevski on either side
After a difficult first-half, Sweden took the lead midway through the second period. Assisted by Gyokeres, Isak opened the scoring after firing a left footed shot into the bottom corner.
It didn’t take long for Sweden to double their advantage and it was that man Isak once again, with the Newcastle forward scoring after yet another assist from Gyokeres following a fine pass through.
Sweden continued to look a real threat in attack and their third came in the 80th minute as Gyokeres added his name to the scoresheet, converting a penalty into the bottom left corner.
Although Azerbaijan pulled one back late on, Sweden held on to secure a 3-1 win and earn three points to start their Nations League campaign. It was a scintillating attacking performance from The Blue and Yellow and one the Arsenal fans may be jealous over, considering they were linked with both over the summer.
Right now, it could be argued that there isn’t any international team with a better and more in-demand front pairing than Isak and Gyokeres. They showed on Thursday that put them together and goals are incoming, whether that is assisted to each other or scoring of their own – and Arsenal have been handed a ‘dream’ scenario after missing out on them. Yes, it’s very unrealistic that the Gunners can sign both, but even one would strengthen their centre forward options and offer them something different up there.
Imagine a front four with Gabriel Martinelli on the left, Bukayo Saka on the right and Isak and Gyokeres through the middle. That could cause unbalance through the rest of the team – especially in midfield – but what it would give is increased firepower and guaranteed goals at the top end of the pitch.
