Major movement expected in coming hours for 21-goal Premier League forward and Barcelona – report | OneFootball

Barcelona could turn their attention towards Arsenal striker Viktor Gyokeres as uncertainty continues to surround their pursuit of Julian Alvarez.

According to Jose Alvarez Haya, movement is expected in the coming hours regarding Gyokeres, with Barcelona prepared to explore the Swedish striker’s situation.

The Arsenal forward has emerged as an alternative following Ferran Torres’ departure, although Julian Alvarez remains Barcelona’s primary target.

However, Atletico Madrid’s refusal to even entertain offers for their Argentine star could force the Blaugrana to seriously consider other options before the transfer window closes.

Barcelona to explore Gyokeres as Alvarez alternative

Barcelona’s search for a new centre-forward has been dominated by the Julian Alvarez situation.

The Argentine remains the club’s preferred target, but Atletico Madrid have maintained a firm stance over his future. 

Barcelona are interested in signing Viktor Gyokeres. (Photo by Charles McQuillan/Getty Images)

The Rojiblancos are unwilling to consider selling him to Barcelona, creating a major obstacle for the Catalan side.

Hence, with a deal for Alvarez looking increasingly difficult, several alternative names have been linked with Barcelona in recent weeks.

Inter Milan captain Lautaro Martinez and Sporting Lisbon striker Luis Suarez were both mentioned as possible options last week. However, those links were eventually played down.

As a result, Gyokeres is now the latest name to enter the conversation.

According to the El Chiringuito journalist, Barcelona are expected to make moves to assess the Arsenal striker’s situation in the coming hours. 

Movement is expected between the parties. (Photo by Evan Treacy/Getty Images)

At this stage, though, there is no suggestion that Barcelona have abandoned their pursuit of Julian Alvarez, but the club appears to be keeping alternative options open in case Atletico Madrid’s position does not change.

Gyokeres coming off a strong debut season

Gyokeres joined Arsenal last summer in a deal worth around €70 million after establishing himself as one of Europe’s most prolific strikers at Sporting Lisbon.

However, his first season in England was more of a mixed bag, finishing the 2025-26 campaign with 21 goals across all competitions for Arsenal. 

While that remains a respectable return, his performances created doubts after the remarkable scoring numbers he produced in Portugal.

Gyokeres was unable to replicate the same level of goalscoring dominance he showed at Sporting, and there were periods during the season when he was not an undisputed starter.