Andrea Berta appears to face new competition in the race to sign Viktor Gyokeres. The Sporting CP striker has been heavily linked with a move to Arsenal for a while now, as Mikel Arteta looks to strengthen his frontline.
Gyokeres, whose contract at the Jose Alvalade Stadium expire in June 2028, featured 33 times in the Primeira Liga this season, scoring 39 goals while also providing eight assists. He also starred in the Champions League, netting six goals in just eight games, with three of which coming against Manchester City.
His impressive performances for the Portuguese outfit haven't gone unnoticed, attracting interest from some top European clubs. So, with all that being said, football.london has rounded-up everything you need to know about Gyokeres and his future at Sporting.
Juventus join the race to sign Gyokeres
According to Italian outlet Corriere dello Sport, Juventus want to sign Gyokeres. The report claims that the Old Lady are planning to take advantage of indecisiveness from Arsenal and Manchester United - who also want to secure the Sweden international's signature.
It's said that Juventus have held talks with Gyokeres' entourage and they're prepared to offer a contract worth £11m-a-year. The Italian giants will also reportedly submit an official bid worth more than £60m 'in the next few days'.
Corriere dello Sport adds that any move from Juventus will rest on whether Dusan Vlahovic leaves this summer.
Gyokeres snubs Man Utd in favour of Arsenal
Over the weekend, The Times reported that Gyokeres has 'snubbed' Manchester United in favour of Arsenal. However, it's said that the Gunners are still split on whether they should sign the Sporting striker or Benjamin Sesko.
Arsenal keep their options open
According to The Mirror, Arsenal are actively pursuing deals for both Gyokeres and Sesko. The report says that, while the Gunners don't plan to sign two strikers this summer, Berta is keeping his options open.
It's said that Arsenal have held advanced discussions over both players, and they haven't ruled out a potential move for Ollie Watkins either. The Mirror reckon that the Aston Villa star is still on Arteta's radar after a January switch collapsed.
Arsenal shelve Gyokeres pursuit
Meanwhile, according to Portuguese newspaper Record, Arsenal have 'shelved' their interest in Gyokeres, who has a £85m release clause written into his contract. The report claims that the Gunners had an initial £55m bid rejected before an improved offer, worth around £60m, was also turned down.
Record claims that higher-ups at the Emirates Stadium have been frustrated by the saga, so much so that they're exploring moves for Watkins and Sesko.
Arsenal prioritise Sesko and shortlist two others
In light of reports from Portugal, The Daily Mail claims that Arsenal have made Sesko their primary target this summer. It's said Alexander Isak and Julian Alvarez are also on the Gunners' radar.
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Arsenal Manager Mikel Arteta, Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard and Gabriel Jesus with the Arsenal Therapy Dog Win during the Arsenal Men's team group shoot at London Colney on September 18, 2023
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