Arsenal have been fired a concerning transfer message after Wesley Sneijder tipped Real Madrid to be the ‘perfect match’ for target Viktor Gyokeres. The Swedish hot-shot is set for a summer of intense speculation with a host of top European clubs looking to sign the prolific Liga Portugal talisman.
He faces an uncertain future in Lisbon after firing Sporting to a league and cup double, ending the campaign with an impressive haul of 51 goals in 53 appearances across all competitions. New Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta is said to be an admirer of the former Coventry City and Brighton striker after initially scouting the forward during his time with Atletico Madrid.
Reports suggest that Arsenal are the frontrunners with the suggestion that club officials held talks with his representatives.
Mikel Arteta is keen to bolster his attack options and the Gunners are in for a busy summer with reported interest in RB Leipzig talisman Benjamin Sesko ramping up.
The Slovenian could be a viable option or even alternative to Gyokeres, depending on how the market plays out.
But the Dutch icon believes last season’s La Liga runners up are the ideal next step for the striker.
“You have to pick a team which works for your playing style,” Sneijder told Metro.
“At the moment, maybe Real [should consider signing him].
“If it allows Kylian Mbappe to move back to the left then maybe itās a perfect match.”
Sporting CP boss Rui Borges ensured that Ruben Amorim’s departure for Manchester United didn’t derail their title defence.
Joao Pereira was tasked with succeeding Amorim but lasted eight games losing four times, subsequently being replaced by Borges who has won 18 of his first 29 in charge.
The current boss faces the prospect of losing his star man but has been faced with questions regarding his future for much of the season.
“He is very happy here,” he said at the end of last month.
“He is very connected to the game, he wants to score and he is obsessed with it.
“He is very focused on the final, he knows he had a great season.
“He is the best striker in Europe, as the numbers show.
“He will be attractive, but I believe that if he doesnāt leave Sporting, he will remain very committed to the club.
“He feels very happy here.”
