Arsenal and Manchester United suffer major set-back in Viktor Gyokeres pursuit amid Barcelona decision: Reports
Viktor Gyokeres has turned down offers from Arsenal and Manchester United and is keen on joining Barcelona, as per El Nacional (via Fichajes.net). The Sporting CP forward has been linked with several top European clubs following his red-hot goalscoring form.
Gyokeres, 23, is having an outstanding season with the Portuguese giants. The Sweden international has registered a mind-blowing 24 goals and four assists in 19 games across competitions.
Most notably, on November 5, he scored a hat-trick in Sporting CP's 4-1 mauling of Manchester City in the UEFA Champions League. Gyokeres's goalscoring prowess has drawn interest from several top European clubs, including Arsenal, Manchester United, and Barcelona.
The Gunners are still searching for a formidable striker to bolster their attacking ranks as they look to solidify their status as Premier League contenders. Gyokeres has also been heavily linked with a move to Manchester United following Ruben Amorim's switch to Old Trafford.
However, according to the abovementioned report, Gyokeres is stalling on a move to the Premier League and fancies joining La Liga giants Barcelona. The Swedish striker is said to be a huge admirer of La Blaugrana and is reportedly waiting for them to make an offer in what would become a dream move for him.
With Robert Lewandowski in the twilight of his career, Barcelona will be looking for a younger replacement and Gyokeres fits the bills. Thus, a move for the Swedish star in the upcoming transfer window is a huge possibility. He currently has a market valuation of €70 million as per Transfermrkt.
Barcelona identify Ligue 1 forward as an alternative to Viktor Gyokeres
Barcelona have reportedly identified Jonathan David as a target if they fail to land Viktor Gyokeres. The Catalan giants are looking for a future successor for Robert Lewandowski who will turn 37 next year.
Gyokeres has been linked with a move to the LaLiga giants. However, the Sporting CP star could cost a fortune, forcing the club to consider other options, with Lille's David coming up as another target.
The Canada international is in the final months of his contract and has yet to pen a new deal at Lille. David has also been prolific this season, bagging 13 goals and two assists in 20 games across competitions.