Barcelona cool on Gyokeres: Board doubts stall move as Barca chase striker before deadline | OneFootball

Barcelona are unlikely to make a move for Viktor Gyokeres amid reservations from the club's board over the Arsenal forward.

Gyokeres has been linked with a potential move to Barcelona as the Spanish champions look to sign a centre-forward before the deadline.

The Swedish striker has beenshortlisted as an option after frustration in the club's pursuit of Atletico Madrid's Julian Alvarez.

Atletico are reluctant to sell Alvarez to aLa Liga rival, despite the 26-year-old's desire for an exit. Alvarez was jeered by the Atletico supporters at the weekend, after making his first appearance since declaring his wish for a move in the summer.

Gyokeres is viewed as a more attainable option with Arsenal open to a sale for the right price. The 28-year-old scored 21 goals in 55 games last season, but has fallen behind Kai Havertz in the pecking order.

Barca unlikely to bid for Gyokeres; Alvarez stalemate and Lautaro refusal reshape plans

The Athletic are reporting that, despite his impressive goal record, Gyokeres 'is not the most admired name within Barcelona's hierarchy'.

Other options being considered by sporting director Deco include Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen and Inter Milan captain Lautaro Martinez, though both appear difficult deals.

Inter CEO Guiseppe Marotta said last weekend that Martinez was not for sale under any circumstances. The two-time Serie A leading scorer is believed to be Barca's number-one alternative to Alvarez.

“First and foremost, Lautaro Martinez is our captain and embodies the current history of our club,” Marotta told DAZN Italia.

“I can state quite clearly that there is absolutely no chance of him leaving.”