Sporting Lisbon striker Viktor Gyokeres has reportedly told friends and family he expects to join Arsenal this summer, talkSPORT journalist Alex Crook has revealed.
The Sweden international is said to believe the Gunners will eventually strike a deal for his move to the Emirates, despite Sporting playing hardball over his exit in recent weeks.
The Portuguese champions are reportedly demanding close to £80m for Gyokeres this window, having backtracked on a gentleman’s agreement that he could depart for around £60m.
According to Crook, Gyokeres now appears more likely to join Arsenal than their long-standing target Benjamin Sesko, despite ongoing talks with RB Leipzig:
“I had a message 24 hours or so ago suggesting that Viktor Gyokeres has told friends and family he expects to join Arsenal.
“We know that Manchester United are interested in signing him as well, obviously there is that pre-existing relationship with Ruben Amorim.
“But Arsenal can offer Champions League football, maybe can offer a tilt at the title next season.
“But Sporting are going to play hardball, there's been a fallout between Gyokeres and the club because his agent has suggested that they had a gentleman's agreement he could leave for £60million, I think they're looking for nearer £80m.
“Arsenal are juggling both him and Benjamin Sesko, they've opened talks with Leipzig as well but at the moment, I would say Gyokeres looks the more likely."
Gyokeres has emerged as one of the best strikers in Europe during his two seasons with Sporting, netting an impressive 97 goals in 102 appearances for the Portuguese club.
The 26-year-old forward’s goals helped Sporting secure a domestic double last term, including a second consecutive Portuguese league title.
Gyokeres has also been linked with several other clubs recently, including Serie A giants Juventus and Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal.
Arsenal, meanwhile, have yet to announce their first signing of the summer but are expected to finalise a deal for Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi soon.
The Spanish international agreed personal terms with the Gunners last month, despite interest from 15-time Champions League winners Real Madrid.
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Statistics courtesy ofTransfermarkt. Correct as of 1 9 -06-25.