Viktor Gyokeres, the Swedish forward who is prospering at Sporting Lisbon, is an exciting new target for Manchester City. The 26-year-old is supposedly being considered as Erling Haaland's replacement, but this could unintentionally interfere with Arsenal's own transfer goals.
Since moving to City in 2022, Haaland has been made an absolute goal machine, tallying an incredible 101 goals in 109 games. His efforts have aided City in winning the FA Cup, the Champions League, as well as two Premier League titles. Rumor has it, though, that the Norwegian might be persuaded to join Real Madrid, a team that has long adored him.
Real Madrid has long had its sights set on Haaland, as is well known. Haaland comes with a €150 million (£125 million) release provision, according to Sky Sports, and as his current deal expires in 2027, his transfer to Madrid in 2026 is becoming more likely. Despite their best efforts, City has not yet been able to sign Haaland to a new contract.
Viktor Gyokeres, who has scored 55 goals during 62 matches for Sporting Lisbon, is rapidly rising to the top of Europe's real estate market. Gyokeres may be the heir to the monarch of Erling Haaland since City is already in communication with his representatives, according to The Mirror.
Can Manchester City pull off the deal for Victor Gyokeres?
Arsenal, who have apparently been keeping an eye on the forward to be a potential addition in their own attack, may be thrown for a loop by Gyokeres' prospective move to City. Arsenal's long-term plan would suffer a serious setback if they lose out on a top target to the English Premier League competitor.
The involvement of Sporting's current football director, Hugo Viana, adds another level of complexity to this tale. After 12 years in the position, Txiki Begiristain will be replaced by Viana when he joins Manchester City after the end of the current campaign. Viana will collaborate with Begiristain to guarantee a smooth transfer, as City announced. Given his strong connections to Sporting Lisbon, his hiring might make Gyokeres' transfer even easier.