Viktor Gyokeres: Arsenal's new goal machine reportedly DESTROYS shirt sales record
Arsenal’s new marquee signing Viktor Gyokeres appears to have ignited the club's fanbase with immediate excitement.
The Sweden international finally completed a £64 million switch from Sporting Lisbon after weeks of intense negotiation.
And the 27-year-old’s arrival has not only fulfilled Arsenal's desperate search for a prolific striker but has also, remarkably, shattered the club's shirt sales record in a staggering display of fan enthusiasm.
According to Daily Mail, the iconic No. 14 shirt, once synonymous with legendary Thierry Henry, now adorning Gyokeres, appears to have propelled this phenomenon.
The Power of the No. 14: What’s the gossip?
The choice of the No. 14 shirt was a masterstroke, whether by design or serendipity.
While initial whispers suggested Gyokeres might have preferred the No. 9, currently held by Gabriel Jesus, his eventual embracing of Henry's hallowed number has clearly resonated profoundly with the Arsenal faithful.
For fans, seeing the No. 14 reborn on the back of a powerful, goal-hungry striker like Gyokeres represents not just a new signing, but a hopeful continuation of a cherished legacy.
To capitalise on this immense excitement, Arsenal shrewdly offered free name and number printing on next season's shirts – a service that typically costs £16.
Per the aforementioned outlet, this promotional strategy proved an overwhelming success, as it triggered a tidal wave of demand that reportedly even caused the official Arsenal website to crash.
Early figures suggest that 'No. 14 Gyokeres' jerseys have already eclipsed the sales of any signing in Arsenal's recent history, even surpassing the popularity of current fan favourites like Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice, and Martin Odegaard.
Arsenal's striker search ends with Gyokeres arrival
Arsenal's pursuit of a world-class striker has been a widely discussed narrative, with both Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus, despite their undeniable qualities, struggling to consistently deliver the sheer volume of goals needed to lead a Premier League title charge.
However, Gyokeres' arrival addresses this critical need head-on.
His move to north London comes after an astonishing period at Sporting Lisbon, where he netted a staggering 97 goals in just 102 appearances.
This prolific form made him one of Europe's most coveted forwards, with Arsenal successfully fending off significant competition, notably from rivals Manchester United, to secure his signature.
Gyokeres has already integrated with his new teammates, participating in training sessions as Arsenal continues their pre-season tour of Asia.
Fans are now eagerly anticipating his potential debut, which could come as early as tomorrow when Arteta's men face fierce rivals Tottenham Hotspur in a highly anticipated friendly.
Following that, Arsenal will take on Villarreal next Wednesday before commencing their Premier League campaign on August 17th against Manchester United at Old Trafford.