Arsenal target Viktor Gyokeres has expressed his transfer preference following a transfer update courtesy of his uncle. And the Swede may end up opting for Lisbon over England – or anywhere else, for that matter.
The Sporting CP striker has become one of the most coveted forwards in Europe, having scored an impressive 96 goals in 101 appearances since his move to Portugal two years ago. Earlier this season, it was believed Manchester United were leading the race for the prolific 26-year-old's signature due to his close relationship with former Sporting boss Ruben Amorim.
However, north London seems to have become a more attractive option for the forward in recent months given their Champions League qualification and upward trajectory compared to the Red Devils. The Gunners' new sporting director, Andrea Berta, is also a huge admirer of Gyokeres.
Despite this, recent reports suggested the Gunners are still unsure about whether they want the £60million-rated Gyokeres to lead their attack next season. That's following word the club recently opened talks with RB Leipzig's Benjamin Sesko, who is supposedly highly rated by Mikel Arteta.
Yet Gyokeres may have already ruled out a move to the Emirates, judging by his comments ahead of this weekend's Taca de Portugal final between Sporting and Benfica.
In a recent interview with Portuguese publication A Bola (via The Mirror), Gyokeres was asked to choose between London and Lisbon, seemingly in an attempt to coax him into revealing his summer transfer plans.
"I prefer Lisbon because I live here now," he replied, suggesting his tale with Sporting may not be fully written just yet. "And yes, I like living here."
The forward's uncle, Chris, recently revealed Gyokeres and his family agreed in a get-together that he would stay put this summer. And the former Coventry City star himself has played down the speculation of an imminent move.
Viktor Gyokeres being interviewed
The forward's uncle has had his say on the matter (Image: Sport TV)
Donning a Sporting scarf and jersey on the day he helped Sporting clinch the title with his goal, he said: "I'm super happy, this is amazing. We were here last year, it's the same spirit, the same people, the same atmosphere. Absolutely fantastic! Beyond words!"
Chris also disclosed that the family had already weighed Viktor's future move during a dinner conversation. When asked if they felt connected to Sporting, he responded: "Yes, very much... yesterday at dinner we decided that he has to stay." Furthermore, when enquired whether Gyokeres would remain with the club this summer, Gyokeres Sr said: "Yes, we think so."
Such statements may have caused concern for both Arsenal and United. However, Gyokeres has since minimised the significance of his uncle's words, clarifying that he remains undecided about who he will be playing for come next season.
Viktor Gyokeres poses with his medal after the Portuguese League football match between Sporting CP and Vitoria Guimaraes SC at Jose Alvalade stadium
Gyokeres recently won his second straight Primeira Liga title (Image: AFP via Getty Images)
"They really like Portugal," the player said of his family's feelings on the matter. "I think they want to be here and enjoy the city, the good weather, and all the atmosphere.
"But it's football and that's another thing. We'll see what happens. Yes [I would like to win a third title with Sporting], but we'll see. I don't know what will happen in the summer... let's see what happens."
Despite Arsenal being evidently keen, United's pursuit for Gyokeres appears on the wane in recent months. That's after their attention apparently turned towards £30m Ipswich Town forward Liam Delap and Wolves' Matheus Cunha.