Arsenal are currently in talks over a deal for Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres, but it could break down. 

The Gunners made a breakthrough in talks last week, but since then progress for signing Gyokeres has stalled, putting any potential deal for the Swedish international in doubt. Furthermore, Man United have reportedly not given up on their pursuit of him.

Fabrizio Romano has said that Gyokeres is still prioritising a move to Arsenal, but with the move still in doubt, Arsenal may have to consider alternative targets. They have been linked to several other names, including Benjamin Sesko, Ollie Watkins, Rafael Leao and Julian Alvarez.

But which one should the Gunners go after if a deal for Gyokeres does break down?

Arsenal should sign Ollie Watkins

The big issue that Mikel Arteta has is that he needs a number nine who can simply put the ball in the net considering that around the striker Arsenal have creative players such as Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli.

If the Gunners want a proven Premier League calibre striker, they should simply consider someone who has already shown that he can be one of the best number nines in the league. Ollie Watkins scored 16 goals and provided eight assists in the league last year.

Watkins would also want the move as he was an Arsenal fan when growing up. Furthermore, Aston Villa have set a price tag of £60m for the England international. The Gunners did make a move for Watkins in January, but their £40m bid was rejected. He has also been linked to rivals Manchester United.

The 29-year-old is good in the air, fast, and very complete in terms of a striker. Aston Villa manager Unai Emery called him “brilliant” earlier in the season. The former Arsenal boss was quotes by Jersey Evening Post saying: “It’s fantastic, brilliant. He deserves it completely because he is a hard worker… I am so, so grateful to have a player like him.

Click here to see our AI simulation of the Premier League table if Arsenal were to secure Gyokeres.