Liverpool hijack attempt backfires as Arsenal ready massive bid for former Brighton goalscoring machine

Arsenal are ahead of Liverpool in the race for Viktor Gyokeres

Arsenal are reportedly in pole position to sign Sporting CP’s prolific striker, Viktor Gyokeres amidst interest from Liverpool. With a sizeable opening bid in the works, the Gunners seem to be edging out Liverpool, whose chances of landing the Swedish forward are dwindling.

Gyokeres has emerged as one of Europe’s top strikers following a sensational first season in Portugal. The 26-year-old scored an impressive 43 goals and provided 15 assists in 50 appearances across all competitions for Sporting CP in 2023/24. His goal contribution rate of nearly one per game has caught the attention of several top clubs, making him a hot commodity this transfer window.

Arsenal are ahead of Liverpool in the race for Viktor Gyokeres.

Liverpool, under new manager Arne Slot, were recently touted as a potential suitor for Gyokeres. The Reds are looking to bolster their attacking options this summer, but it seems their interest in the Swedish striker is not as strong as initially believed. According to TEAMtalk, Liverpool are not planning a bid for Gyokeres at this time.

Slot appears content to rely on current No. 9 Darwin Nunez and has prioritized strengthening other areas of the squad, particularly in defence and midfield. This decision has allowed Arsenal to take the lead in the race for Gyokeres, with sporting director Edu and manager Mikel Arteta keen on adding the striker to their ranks. The Swede could certainly give the Gunners a massive boost in the final third.

Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that the Gunners are ready to launch an opening bid for Gyokeres, valued between £55m and £60m. Sporting CP, however, are protected by a substantial €100m (£84.6m) release clause in Gyokeres’ contract, suggesting that negotiations could be challenging.

Despite this, Arsenal are determined to secure the Swedish international’s signature as they aim to bolster their attack and challenge Manchester City and Liverpool’s dominance in the Premier League. With Eddie Nketiah’s departure anticipated, Arsenal’s move for Gyokeres could be imminent. A former Brighton & Hove Albion and Coventry City star, Gyokeres already is familiar with the English game.

More Liverpool News

From a Liverpool perspective, missing out on Viktor Gyokeres might seem like a setback, but it reflects the club’s faith in Nunez and his potential. The Uruguayan certainly has the minerals, and should Slot unlock him like he did Santiago Gimenez at Feyenoord Rotterdam, the Reds will have a prolific marksman who can be unplayable on his day.

Diogo Jota and Cody Gakpo can also play upfront if needed. With Jayden Danns showcasing his clinical prowess last season, the Reds have no need to splash the cash on another forward.