Arsenal in “advanced talks” with Sporting CP over deal for Man United target Viktor Gyokeres | OneFootball

Arsenal are reportedly closing in on the signing of Sporting CP striker and Manchester United target Viktor Gyokeres.

United are in the market for a new top-class striker after a goal-shy 2024/25 campaign that saw them finish in 15th place and with a -10 goal difference.

No one embodied United’s blunt edge in attack quite like Rasmus Hojlund. With just four league goals to his name, the Dane’s struggles have sparked serious debate over whether he’s truly cut out to lead the line.

Speculation over his Old Trafford future persists amid interest from Italy, though a report covered by The Peoples Person claimed that Inter Milan are no longer in the running for his signature, as they’ve decided to focus on other targets.

Meanwhile, United continue to be linked to the likes of Victor Osimhen (Napoli), Benjamin Sesko (RB Leipzig), Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa), Moise Kean (Fiorentina) and of course, Gyokeres. With Liam Delap no longer an option, Gyokeres has emerged as United’s primary target, but finalising a reunion with Ruben Amorim appears extremely challenging.

The Swede is currently embroiled in a bitter public spat with Sporting, who have made it clear that they will not accept a cut-price deal for their top scorer. Gyokeres has been adamant that he had a gentleman’s agreement with the Portuguese giants to leave for significantly less than his release clause.

It’s also believed that Arsenal, who can offer Champions League football, are Gyokeres’ preferred transfer destination.

There have been suggestions that Arsenal already lodged an initial bid for the player, even though it was rejected.

Now, according to journalist Sacha Tavolieri, the Gunners are close to reaching an agreement with Sporting to bring Gyokeres to the Emirates Stadium.

Tavolieri wrote on X, “Arsenal Football Club now in advanced talks with Sporting CP in order to find a deal for Viktor Gyökeres.”

“Gunners feels like they touching the final line on that case. 5 years deal already agreed.”

Tavolieri’s report that Gyokeres is close to agreeing personal terms with Arsenal has been backed up by French outlet L’Équipe [via GFFN], who note that the London club are indeed ahead of United and other suitors.

Gyokeres netted 54 goals and provided an additional 13 assists in 52 appearances across all competitions last season.

Featured image Stuart Franklin via Getty Images

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