Arsenal one step from Viktor Gyokeres transfer as Sporting CP make major striker decision

Sporting CP are seemingly preparing for life after Viktor Gyokeres.

The Portuguese champions are said to be eyeing up their potential replacement for the striker Arsenal have considered signing this summer transfer window. Luis Javier Suarez of Almeria appears to be their top target to replace the Sweden international - hinting he could yet seal a move away from his current club.

Gyokeres had an outstanding season last term, scoring over 50 goals and helping his side clinch the title, which has sparked interest from several clubs for a possible summer transfer. The Gunners and Manchester United are among the Premier League teams keen on securing his services.

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Despite Sporting's efforts to retain their star player, Gyokeres has expressed his desire to explore new opportunities. Reports in Europe suggest that Suarez is Sporting's preferred choice to fill the void he would leave in their attacking line-up for the 2025-26 season.

Sporting have a proven track record of nurturing talent, with many of their signings later moving on for substantial profits. A Colombia international, Suarez plies his trade in Spain's second division but scored 31 goals last season.

It has been suggested that Sporting would be willing to part ways with Gyokeres for around £65million, a figure lower than his release clause. However, disagreements between the player and the club management over the asking price have reportedly complicated his departure.

Frederico Varandas, the club president, has been clear about the transfer speculation regarding Gyokeres, asserting: "I can guarantee that Viktor Gyokeres will not leave for €60m plus €10m because I never promised that. To this day, Sporting has not had an offer for Gyokeres - neither today nor last season."

Sporting's decision to sign another striker appears to mean a deal for Gyokeres could now be made, with the only step left to take being to agree on a transfer fee and personal terms following the club's move to bring in a replacement.

Arsenal have focused on recruiting a centre-forward, and Benjamin Sesko is at the top of their list. Although the Slovenian's performances for RB Leipzig have turned heads, wage demands are making discussions difficult, potentially leading Arsenal to consider Gyokeres as an alternative.

The Swede is no stranger to English football, having previously played for Brighton & Hove Albion, Coventry City and Swansea City. His time at Coventry initially sparked interest from Ruben Amorim, now with Sporting, where the striker has thrived.

The strong relationship between Gyokeres and Amorim has fuelled rumours of a potential move to Man United, who are keen to bolster their attacking options. However, the Reds being out of the Champions League throws a possible wrench into any decision-making process, especially since Arsenal seems to be Gyokeres' preferred next stop.