Viktor Gyokeres Prefers Lisbon Over London Amidst Transfer Rumours
The highly sought-after Swedish striker, Viktor Gyokeres, has expressed his preference for Lisbon over London, according to reports from Portuguese publication A Bola, as cited by the Express. The 26-year-old Sporting striker has become one of Europe’s most coveted forwards over the past two seasons, with Premier League giants Arsenal and Manchester United rumoured to be interested in securing his services.
Gyokeres has been in scintillating form since moving to Portugal, scoring an impressive 96 goals in 101 appearances for Sporting. His performances have attracted interest from several top-tier clubs, with Arsenal and Manchester United initially thought to be leading the charge to sign him. The Red Devils were believed to have a strong chance of luring Gyokeres to Old Trafford due to his close ties with their head coach, Ruben Amorim, who previously managed Sporting.
However, according to the Express, Arsenal may have emerged as the more appealing option for Gyokeres due to their Champions League qualification and positive trajectory compared to Manchester United. The North London side’s new sporting director, Andrea Berta, is also reported to be a huge admirer of the forward. Despite this, the Gunners are still undecided about whether they want to splash out £60million to sign Gyokeres to lead their attack next season, with manager Mikel Arteta also considering alternative options, including Benjamin Sesko.
In an attempt to gauge Gyokeres’ plans ahead of the summer transfer window, A Bola posed a question to the striker, asking if he prefers London or Lisbon. Gyokeres’ response may have significant implications for the transfer rumours surrounding him, as he stated: "I prefer Lisbon because I live here now. And yes, I like living here." This comment could suggest that Gyokeres sees his future in the Portuguese capital, or perhaps he is simply choosing to play his cards close to his chest.
The Express reports that Gyokeres’ uncle, Chris, had previously claimed that the striker and his family had decided against pursuing a departure from Sporting this summer. Chris Gyokeres revealed that the family had discussed Viktor’s transfer options during dinner and had concluded that he should stay at Sporting. When questioned about his nephew’s affinity with the Portuguese club, Chris stated: "Yes, very much… yesterday at dinner we decided that he has to stay." He also expressed his happiness at Viktor’s recent performances, saying: "I’m super happy, this is amazing. We were here last year, it’s the same spirit, the same people, the same atmosphere. Absolutely fantastic! Beyond words!"
However, Gyokeres himself has now downplayed his uncle’s remarks, indicating that he has not made any final decisions regarding his club affiliation for next season. As reported by the Express, he shared: "They really like Portugal; I think they want to be here and enjoy the city, the good weather, and all the atmosphere. But it’s football and that’s another thing. We’ll see what happens. Yes [I would like to win a third title with Sporting], but we’ll see. I don’t know what will happen in the summer… Let’s see what happens." The Express notes that Gyokeres’ comments suggest that he remains open to all possibilities, and a final decision on his future is yet to be made.
The Express understands that Gyokeres’ preference for Lisbon over London may come as a blow to Arsenal and Manchester United, who are hoping to lure him to the Premier League. However, with the transfer window still in its infancy, it remains to be seen how the situation will unfold. One thing is certain, though – Viktor Gyokeres is a highly coveted talent, and his next move will be closely watched by fans and pundits alike.
Source: The Express
