Arsenal transfer news: Bundesliga forward 'actively monitored' as talks for Sporting Lisbon striker Viktor Gyokeres continue

Published: July 20 2025 | 00:00

Gunners have 'actively monitored' Bundesliga striker as Gyokeres deal drags on

Arsenal are yet to complete the signing of Viktor Gyokeres, but a report claims they could also move for another striker in this summer window.

Arsenal have reportedly actively monitored Mainz 05 forward forward Nelson Weiper amid delays in the deal to bring Viktor Gyokeres to England from Sporting Lisbon.

The Gunners will take on AC Milan on Wednesday in their first pre-season friendly, and manager Mikel Arteta will hope to bed in new signings like Martin Zubimendi and Noni Madueke.

A transfer for Sporting number nine Gyokeres has been described as advanced, but the Swede is still yet to officially sign for the Londoners.

There are concerns that his preparation for the 2025-26 campaign may be disrupted unless Arsenal can speed along his move to the Emirates.

However, while progress has been slow for the Sporting striker, FootballTransfers claim that a deal could materialise for Mainz striker Weiper, who would cost just over £12m.

Weiper in profile: Stats and playstyle

At 6ft 3in, Weiper would fit Arteta's demands for a physical presence up top, though he is only 19 years old and may take time to settle into the Premier League.

The German scored three goals and provided two assists in 23 Bundesliga appearances last term, but he only started seven times in the league.

Weiper recorded a top speed of 34.75 km/h in 2024-25, a figure that was only bettered by Gabriel Martinelli (35.4 km/h) and Ethan Nwaneri (35.1 km/h) in last season's Champions League.

Would Weiper make sense for Arsenal even if they sign Gyokeres?

Considering current number nine Kai Havertz is likely to be relegated to the bench in 2025-26 due to Gyokeres's arrival, Weiper could find it difficult to earn minutes at the Emirates.

There is an argument that the youngster would be best served by remaining at Mainz and becoming a regular starter in the Bundesliga before making the switch to the Premier League.

It is also important to highlight that Arteta is under pressure to deliver major silverware, and he is unlikely to take a risk on a relatively inexperienced forward in his quest for the title.