Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres has reportedly prioritized a move to Arsenal over reuniting with his former manager, Ruben Amorim, at Manchester United.
This development follows renewed speculation about the Swedish international’s future, particularly after Andrea Berta was confirmed as Arsenal’s new sporting director.
According to A Bola, Gyokeres is approaching a decisive moment in his career. Having scored 85 goals in 92 games for Sporting, he is widely believed to be seeking a new challenge ahead of the upcoming season.
Reports suggest there is a gentleman’s agreement between Sporting and Gyokeres, ensuring he can leave if a club meets his €70-75 million (£58.6-62.8 million) valuation this summer. A Bola further claims that Arsenal is his preferred destination, even over a potential reunion with Amorim at United.
Between 2023 and 2024, Gyokeres played 68 matches under Amorim, scoring 66 goals during that period. However, his preference for Arsenal reportedly stems from his ambition rather than past affiliations. The 26-year-old is said to be willing to accept lower financial terms to join a club he believes can compete for major trophies sooner.
Arsenal have demonstrated their competitive edge despite injuries and key players nearing the end of their contracts, remaining in the Premier League title race and the Champions League quarterfinals. Conversely, Manchester United are struggling under Amorim’s early tenure, sitting 13th in the table and facing financial constraints during their rebuild.
Gyokeres is reportedly only considering clubs in UEFA’s elite European competitions and has a shortlist that includes Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester City, Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich.
For Arsenal, Gyokeres is one of several forwards linked to the club in recent months. Manager Mikel Arteta has faced challenges in attack, with Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz both ruled out for the remainder of the season since January.
Looking ahead, Arteta has emphasized the importance of the upcoming transfer window, stating: “It’s a big summer for many things because, first of all, we have to maintain the good foundations that we have and then obviously, how can we improve and evolve the team?”
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