Sporting Lisbon striker Mikel Arteta has explained why he would not want to join a club in a Nordic country this summer amid continued speculation of a potential transfer to Viktor Gyokeres.
The Gunners have been heavily linked with making a move for Gyokeres this summer as they aim to bring in a new centre forward.
Arsenal and Co. did not sign a new striker last season, but it's understood that RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko want to bring a centre forward to North London ahead of the 2025/26 campaign. football.london understands that Arsenal are admirers of Gyokeres, whilst also holding an interest in RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko.
Gyokeres has been in fine form for Sporting over the last two seasons, scoring 97 goals in 102 appearances across the last two campaigns.
The Sweden international found the back of the net 54 times last term which has led to continued interest in his signature, with Arsenal frequently mentioned as a potential destination. Manchester United have also been credited with an interest in the 27-year-old this summer, reports the Mirror.
Ahead of what is expected to be a busy summer window, Gyokeres has taken part in an interview with Vogue Scandinavia, where he was asked about his future and made it clear that he does not have any plans to return to his homeland.
“After living in a warm country, it would be difficult,” Gyokeres said in the interview. The striker went on to explain why he has been enjoying life in Portugal.
“In Sweden, people work hard during the week and only socialize on the weekends," Gyokeres said. "Here there is more life during the week. They have dinners with friends, a glass of wine on Monday. I like that.”
Gyokeres is widely reported to have a €100million (£84million) release clause in his contract at Sporting. There have been suggestions, though, that the Primeira Liga club could be willing to accept an offer closer to £60million instead.
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