Arsenal open talks to sign Andrea Berta’s preferred striker ahead of summer window

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Arsenal have initiated discussions with the representatives of Sporting Lisbon striker Viktor Gyökeres as they look to bolster their attack ahead of the summer transfer window.

The 26-year-old Sweden international is expected to leave Sporting after a sensational season in Portugal, where he scored an astonishing 52 goals in 48 appearances across all competitions. With multiple European giants circling, including Manchester United, Chelsea, and Liverpool, Arsenal are understood to be among the frontrunners for his signature.

Gyökeres, however, is reportedly prioritising a move to a club competing in the Champions League next season. Sources suggest that the striker may be leaning towards a switch to north London, which would be a major boost for Arsenal.

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New sporting director Andrea Berta, who joined Arsenal from Atletico Madrid in March, has made the signing of a new centre forward one of his top priorities this summer. Berta is believed to be particularly keen on Gyökeres, with reports from Sky Sports Germany indicating that preliminary talks with the player’s camp are already underway.

Despite the strong interest from England, Bayern Munich are no longer thought to be in the race to sign Gyökeres. Arsenal also retain long-standing interest in Newcastle striker Alexander Isak, but the Magpies’ steep valuation could prove a stumbling block. In contrast, Sporting are reportedly open to selling Gyökeres for a fee in the region of £58–63 million, making him a more affordable target.

Gyökeres has so far remained tight-lipped about his future. When asked about a possible agreement with Sporting to leave this summer, he told reporters in April: “No one can predict what will happen, we enjoy the moment,” adding, “I can’t say anything about that.”

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Meanwhile, Manchester United had been linked with a move for Gyökeres, particularly given manager Erik ten Hag’s interest in Sporting boss Ruben Amorim. Amorim was reportedly open to a reunion with the striker at Old Trafford. However, United are also exploring other options, with Ipswich Town forward Liam Delap emerging as a top target.

United’s pursuit of attacking reinforcements may hinge on whether they can secure Champions League football. A Europa League final berth beckons after their victory over Athletic Bilbao, and winning the competition would ensure qualification.

However, Amorim has issued a warning about player motivations, stating, “If a player only wants to come to Man United to play Champions League, then he won’t come. We want players who want to represent United, not players who want to play certain competitions.”

As things stand, Gyökeres remains one of the most sought-after forwards in Europe, and Arsenal are making an early push to win the race for his signature.

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