Arteta's Arsenal has made a leap in quality this season and has proven to be among the greats of Europe. Their performance in the Champions League has been more than remarkable, reaching the semifinals after eliminating Real Madrid in the quarterfinals. Although they ultimately fell to Luis Enrique's PSG, the team left a very solid and competitive image, confirming the project led by the Spanish coach.
With a young squad, well-worked and with a clear identity, Arteta has consolidated the "gunners" as a reference both in the Premier League and in Europe. However, the coach himself knows that there is still a step to take to realistically aspire to the continental title. In that sense, he has conveyed to the board his intention to strengthen the attack for next season with top-level signings.
He sets his sights on Barça's targets
Despite their performance, Arsenal has had moments of difficulty in turning their dominance of matches into goals, especially in European knockout stages. Arteta considers it a priority to incorporate more offensive power, and according to "El Nacional," the coach has reportedly identified two targets that are also on Barça's sporting director's agenda.
The coincidence of interests between Arsenal and Barça could lead to an especially intense summer market. Both clubs, although with different economic contexts, are seeking proven offensive talent capable of making a difference from the first minute. On that shared list of names, a duo stands out that has excelled this season in their respective teams.
The two names Arteta wants
The two footballers on the radar of both Barça and Arsenal are Nico Williams and Viktor Gyökeres. The Navarrese winger was already on the list last summer, and his imbalance, speed, and constant progression were valued. Meanwhile, Viktor Gyökeres has established himself in the Portuguese league as a complete forward, capable of combining power, finishing, and back-to-goal play with great effectiveness.
Both players are in vogue in European soccer, and there will be no shortage of clubs interested in acquiring their services this summer. Their profiles respond to very clear needs in teams that aspire to dominate their respective leagues and go far in Europe. However, their signing will not be easy or cheap and will require a firm commitment from the club that wants to secure them.
Viktor Gyökeres remains on the agenda
In the case of Nico Williams, it seems that Barça will not have him as a priority this summer. Although his name was very present in the club's offices last year, the operation did not materialize, and now the sporting director believes that train has already passed. Barça values his quality but considers that there are other economic and sporting priorities to consider.
In contrast, Viktor Gyökeres is still a name that is very appealing. If the Swedish forward could leave for a figure close to 70M, the Catalan club would be willing to seriously consider his incorporation, provided they manage to free up salary space. However, they will have to compete directly with Arsenal, who also see Gyökeres as the ideal profile to lead their attack in the next competitive leap.