Mikel Arteta has issued a bold warning to Premier League defenders, highlighting the potent threat posed by Arsenal's newest acquisition, Viktor Gyökeres. The Arsenal manager believes that the Swedish striker has the ability to "destroy" opponents who afford him space on the pitch.

Arsenal finalized the transfer of Viktor Gyökeres from Sporting Lisbon in a deal worth €73.5 million. The 27-year-old striker arrives with a stellar goal-scoring record, having netted an impressive 97 goals in 102 appearances for Sporting. During his time with the Portuguese club, Gyökeres helped them secure back-to-back Primeira Liga titles and a domestic cup.

Gyökeres showcased his potential in Arsenal's recent pre-season friendly against Athletic Club, scoring his first goal for the club. He latched onto a precise cross from fellow new signing Martin Zubimendi and powerfully headed the ball into the net. Besides the goal, Gyökeres' performance was notable for his runs into channels and his strength in holding off defenders. He also nearly scored a second goal with a diving header that hit the post.

Arteta expressed his excitement about the different dimension Gyökeres brings to Arsenal's attack. He praised the striker's instincts, movement, and ability to anticipate plays. "That's his nature," Arteta said. "I think everything that he does, his movement, the way he times his runs, the way he predicts the next move, where the space can be and where the ball is going to land, that's the instinct that he has". Arteta also emphasized Gyökeres' capability to create space for his teammates and score goals in various situations. "He's a player that when you leave him with space one against one he's going to destroy you, so he's going to create a lot of space as well for us. He is a player that in any situation can score a goal".

Arsenal's pre-season form has been solid, with victories over AC Milan and Newcastle United, alongside a defeat to Tottenham and Villarreal. The Gunners concluded their pre-season campaign with a dominant 3-0 win against Athletic Club. Besides Gyökeres' goal, Bukayo Saka and Kai Havertz also found the net, demonstrating Arsenal's attacking depth.

With the Premier League season set to commence, Arsenal's first match is against Manchester United. The Gunners will be hoping that Gyökeres can quickly adapt to the English top flight and replicate his impressive goal-scoring form. Arsenal finished as runners-up in the Premier League for the last three seasons, and they will be determined to mount a serious title challenge this year.

Arteta faces a welcomed selection dilemma with both Gyökeres and Kai Havertz in good form. He believes that the two forwards can play together, offering different qualities to the team. "They can play together," Arteta said. "Kai can play in different positions as well. It elevates the team's level and options of the squad. It's great to see both of them scoring and it's a good problem to have".

In addition to Gyökeres, Arsenal has also made other significant signings, including Martin Zubimendi, Christian Nørgaard, Noni Madueke and Cristhian Mosquera. These new additions are expected to bolster the squad and provide Arteta with greater tactical flexibility. The return to fitness of key defenders Gabriel Magalhaēs and Jurrien Timber will further strengthen Arsenal's阵容.