Arsenal’s long-term attacking evolution under Mikel Arteta continues to spark debate, and the arrival of Viktor Gyökeres has not completely silenced suggestions that the club could still raise their level in the final third.
While the Swedish striker was brought in to solve Arsenal’s long-standing centre-forward problem, some observers believe the next true upgrade may actually come from out wide, with AC Milan star Rafael Leão repeatedly mentioned as a transformational option.
Gyökeres arrived with a formidable reputation after a prolific spell in Portugal, where his physical presence, relentless pressing and eye for goal made him one of Europe’s most sought-after forwards. Arsenal viewed him as a ready-made solution capable of leading the line, occupying defenders and bringing others into play. His performances have already shown flashes of why Arteta pushed for the deal, particularly his ability to bully centre-backs and attack space with real intent. However, there is a growing feeling among pundits that Arsenal’s attack still lacks a truly explosive wide forward who can dominate matches on his own.
This is where Rafael Leão enters the conversation. The Portuguese winger has long been described as one of Europe’s most devastating wide attackers, combining raw pace, power and technical quality in a way that few defenders can handle. Those who have followed his development closely often draw parallels with a young Thierry Henry, especially in how he operates from the left flank, drives inside at speed and finishes with composure. The comparison is not about numbers alone, but about the fear factor he brings whenever he receives the ball in space.
From an Arsenal perspective, Leão would represent a different level of threat compared to their current wide options. While Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli offer pace, work rate and consistency, Leão provides something more unpredictable. He has the ability to turn a tight, cagey game on its head with one burst of acceleration or one moment of brilliance. Against deep-lying defences, which Arsenal frequently face, that individual spark could be decisive in the biggest moments of the season.
The idea of Leão being an “upgrade” is not necessarily a criticism of Gyökeres. Instead, it highlights the belief that Arsenal’s next step towards dominating domestically and in Europe requires adding another elite attacker who can share the scoring burden. Gyökeres thrives with service and space created around him, and pairing him with a powerful, direct winger like Leão could unlock an even more dangerous attacking dynamic. Defenders would be forced to choose between stepping out to stop Leão or staying compact to contain Gyökeres, a dilemma that would play perfectly into Arteta’s tactical vision.
Financially, a deal for Leão would be complex and expensive, potentially requiring Arsenal to break their transfer record. AC Milan regard him as a cornerstone of their project, and prising him away would demand a significant fee. Yet there is a growing sense among sections of the fanbase that Arsenal are close enough to the very top that one bold, statement signing could make the difference between near-misses and major trophies.
Ultimately, the discussion reflects Arsenal’s raised standards. A few seasons ago, signing a striker of Gyökeres’ calibre would have been seen as the final piece of the puzzle. Now, with the team competing at the highest level, attention has shifted to how Arteta can add even more cutting edge. Whether Arsenal ever move for Leão remains to be seen, but the very fact he is being discussed alongside Gyökeres shows how ambitious the club’s project has become, and how determined they are to build an attack capable of overwhelming any opponent.