Arsenal appear to have taken a huge step forward in the race to sign Viktor Gyokeres from Sporting Clube de Portugal. The 26-year-old striker has been linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium for a while now as Mikel Arteta hopes to bolster his frontline.
Gyokeres, who sees his contract at the José Alvalade Stadium expire in June 2028, has featured 32 times in the Portuguese top-flight this season, scoring 38 goals and providing six assists. Playing a key role in Rui Borges’ side, he’s helped the Lions climb to first place.
With one game left to play, just three goals separate Sporting from Benfica in second. Regardless of whether the Sweden international wins the title this weekend, he’s attracted interest from lots of top clubs – including the Gunners – ahead of the summer transfer window.
In fact, according to Portuguese newspaper A Bola, as quoted by Sport Witness, Arsenal have offered Gyokeres a salary worth £7m-a-year after tax – which is about £130,000-a-week. The report claims that the proposal has been received as ‘acceptable’.
It’s said that once the Gunners have agreed personal terms with the Swede, they’ll be ready to send Sporting an offer worth between €70m and €75m (£58.9m and £63m). A Bola add that Gyokeres prioritises a move to the Premier League.
Speaking to reporters last month, Borges suggested that the Swede will leave the Portuguese outfit this summer. As quoted by the Metro, the Sporting boss said: “Sporting recognised his talent, and here we are.
“Fortunately, we have him at Sporting. We must make the most of the time we have with him because he is truly exceptional. I have said this before, and I will continue to say it.
“He brings a lot to the team, and his teammates are aware of what he contributes, which is why they look for him during games. The collective effort also plays a role, as no one can succeed alone.
“Viktor is a game-changer, and he will continue to be, whether with us or elsewhere. His quality is undeniable; it is phenomenal.”
Gyokeres was later quizzed on a potential move to Arsenal, but he kept his cards close to his chest. Following Sporting’s 3-1 win over Moreirense last month, he was asked if he liked London. He replied: “I like Lisbon.”
Then, on his ‘gentleman’s agreement’ to leave the club in the summer, Gyokeres added: “I can’t say anything about that. No one can predict what will happen, we enjoy the moment…”
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