"We know his strengths" – Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya on what Gunners must do to stop Viktor Gyokeres in Champions League clash

Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya has outlined his team's plans to stop in-form attacker Viktor Gyokeres ahead of their UEFA Champions League tie at Sporting CP this Tuesday (November 26).

Gyokeres, 26, has cemented himself as one of the best strikers in the world since leaving EFL Championship side Coventry City in a £20 million switch last year. He has helped his current club lift one Primeira Liga title so far.

The former Brighton & Hove Albion man has been in sensational form this campaign. He has found the back of the net 24 times in just 19 matches across competitions for his team so far. He has also laid out four assists this term.

At a pre-game press conference, Raya was asked to offer his thoughts on Arsenal's strategy to neutralise Gyokeres' threat. The Spaniard replied (h/t Now Arsenal):

"We know his strengths... how he makes runs in behind, his one-on-one ability, and his scoring form. He's a top player. We're going to try and keep him very, very quiet. We can't afford to give him any chances. It's crucial we step up defensively, and hopefully, we can keep a clean sheet."

The Gunners, who are fourth in the Premier League table with 22 points from 12 matches, are 12th in the Champions League standings. They are on seven points from four matches, while Sporting are second with 10 points so far.

Arsenal told to avoid signing 19-year-old

According to SPORT, Mikel Arteta's side have contacted Arda Guler's camp to gauge whether the Real Madrid star would be interested in joining the Gunners.

However, former Tottenham Hotspur man Darren Bent is of the opinion that the teenager will struggle to shine at the Emirates Stadium outfit. He told talkSPORT's Inside Gooners podcast (h/t Metro):

"Not for me. You want a grade out of five? I'll say one. He won't fit the squad. I think he's a very good player, I saw him at the Euros, very talented. But will you swap one bench for another? At Real Madrid, he's not getting the opportunities. Coming to Arsenal... there are better options, be it out wide or in the No.10 role. I can’t see that one happening. Good player, but, not for Arsenal, no."

Guler, who left Fenerbahce to join Real Madrid for £17 million last summer, has started nine of his 25 appearances across all competitions for his club. The 19-year-old Turkey international has scored six goals and laid out one assist for Carlo Ancelotti's team so far.