Viktor Gyokeres has spoken clearly. The Swedish forward has informed Arsenal of his wish to wear the famous No.14 shirt. The decision comes hours before his scheduled flight to London. Arsenal are working to finalize his move from Sporting CP.
The striker’s camp confirmed the choice on Tuesday morning. Arsenal have accepted the request in principle. The club will now complete shirt registration once medicals are done.
Gyokeres is expected in London this week. His transfer to Arsenal is in the final phase. Both clubs already agreed on a deal worth around €90m. Sporting gave permission for travel after final contract checks.
The No.14 shirt at Arsenal carries strong history. Thierry Henry wore it during his best years at the club. The number became free after Eddie Nketiah accepted to switch numbers ahead of the new season. Gyokeres wants to continue the tradition of forwards wearing the number.
Sources told Soccerpicks that Gyokeres made the request early in talks. Arsenal’s internal team reviewed the demand with their marketing unit. The striker’s profile fits the club’s future plans. His goalscoring form in Portugal attracted attention across Europe.
Sporting used Gyokeres in a central attacking role last season. He scored 27 league goals in 31 matches. His movement, pace, and strength made him a key target for Mikel Arteta. Arsenal moved quickly once their top summer striker targets changed.
The deal includes fixed and performance-related clauses. Arsenal will pay the fee in structured terms over multiple seasons. Personal terms were already agreed in June. Gyokeres will sign a long-term contract until 2030.
His arrival adds competition to the frontline. Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz will rotate roles depending on the opponent. Arteta wants more efficiency in front of goal next season. Last season, Arsenal finished second in the Premier League.
Gyokeres is keen to wear the shirt immediately. If approved, he will debut in No.14 during Arsenal’s pre-season fixtures. The club has included him in the list for their upcoming tour.
He is flying in from Lisbon tonight. A medical has been booked for Wednesday morning. Arsenal will then proceed with official photos and shirt presentation. A full announcement could follow within 48 hours.
Sporting thanked the player privately for his contribution. The club is preparing to replace him before their league opener. Gyokeres leaves after just one season but leaves a major impact in the Primeira Liga.
Soccerpicks understands the deal is now complete in all key areas. Arsenal will publish an official statement after contract signatures and Premier League registration.
The No.14 shirt will soon have a new owner. Gyokeres is ready for his next step.
