Arsenal have moved informally for Viktor Gyokeres, Sporting firm on valuation
|Arsenal have ‘moved’ informally to sign one of Europe’s most in-form strikers, according to Record.
The Gunners have made just one outfield signing in Riccardo Calafiori this summer, but they are likely to make a formal bid for Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino soon.
A marquee striker could also be pursued before the transfer window closes. Eddie Nketiah is attracting a lot of interest and his departure could pave the way for a new arrival.
Record today claim that the Gunners have held ‘informal’ talks with Sporting for Viktor Gyokeres in recent weeks in order to assess the conditions for a possible summer deal.
However, the Portuguese champions are clear that they won’t sell their prized asset for less than his £86 million release clause.
The Lisbon giants are reluctant to negotiate payment terms unless their valuation is met.
Gyokeres would be a statement signing before deadline
The Gunners have been tipped to sign a high-profile striker this summer, but the club have not made a formal move despite the regular speculation across different outlets.
Gyokeres is one of those who has been linked. The Swede had a sensational debut season at Sporting, scoring 43 goals and providing 15 assists from just 50 appearances.
He had a minor knee injury at the end of the campaign, but has returned in tip-top shape. Gyokeres has registered one goal and three assists from two games this season.
In our view, Arsenal can make a statement by signing Gyokeres before the August 30 deadline.
The former Coventry City man has the credentials to suit the Premier League. He also seems a perfect fit for the Gunners with his off-the-ball movement and creativity.
Gyokeres averaged almost 18 passes per league game last term. He created 11 big chances in the Primeira Liga and had a solid shot-to-goal conversion rate of 25 percent.
He would be an upgrade on Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus. The 26-year-old could be the final piece in the jigsaw as Arsenal push to end their two-decade-long wait for the title.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com