The future of Viktor Gyokeres continues to be a talking point after David Ornstein confirmed that a Premier League club are developing a ‘strong interest’ in one of Europe’s most sought-after players.
Gyokeres, who has scored 30 goals in 26 appearances for Primeira Liga leaders Sporting CP this season, has been linked with a number of clubs, including Bayern Munich, Barcelona and Manchester United.
In fact, United are hopeful of fending off interest from elsewhere to secure a deal for Gyokeres in the summer, according to The Independent.
The same report also mentioned interest from fellow Premier League side Arsenal, who are said to have “raised the striker in discussions” in January as they debated forward options following an ACL injury to Gabriel Jesus.
Now, it appears the Swede has become more of a priority for the Gunners following the appointment of sporting director Andrea Berta, with Gyokeres being labelled as a more ‘prominent candidate’ amid uncertainly elsewhere.
The Athletic’s David Ornstein claims Arsenal are considering their options to recruit a striker this summer but it appears a move for Alexander Isak is unlikely, with Newcastle having no intention of letting him leave.
RB Leipzig forward Benjamin Sesko is also mentioned, although it is currently ‘unclear’ if Arsenal will join the race to sign one of Europe’s top prospects.
Gyokeres, meanwhile, appears likely to leave Sporting this summer and seems a more realistic target compared to the previously mentioned names.
Asked about his future in January, Gyokeres refused to rule out a move. “We will see,” he told Marca. “There are many rumours circulating, but we are in the middle of the season and there are still many months left. We will see when the time comes what will happen.”
The Swede was also asked where he sees himself playing in four years time. He replied: “Playing for one of the best teams in Europe. That is the objective.”
Arsenal’s new sporting director Andrea Berta is a huge admirer of Gyokeres. Image credit: Getty
As mentioned above, Arsenal recently confirmed the appointment of Andrea Berta as their new sporting director.
Berta, who left Atletico Madrid in January following a 12-year spell with the La Liga club, is said to have impressed the North London outfit with his track record of transfers that include Jan Oblak, who joined Atletico from Benfica in 2014 for just €4 million, and Rodri.
“I am thrilled to be joining Arsenal in what is a hugely exciting period for the club,” he told Arsenal’s official website.
“I have watched with great interest the way Arsenal has evolved in recent years and I have admired the hard work that has gone in to reestablishing the club as a major force in European football with a passionate following around the world.
“The club has great values and a rich history, and I am looking forward to playing my part in shaping a successful future with a great team. I cannot wait to get started in my new role and I am really looking forward to experiencing my first game at Emirates Stadium together with our supporters.”
