Sporting Lisbon forward Viktor Gyokeres continues to strengthen his case as one of Europe’s most in-demand strikers with another electrifying display. The Swedish international bagged his fifth hat-trick of the season in a 3-1 victory over Moreirense, further boosting his already staggering goal tally. With 47 goals in 46 appearances across all competitions, Gyokeres is showing precisely why he’s attracting interest from elite clubs, particularly Arsenal.
The prolific frontman wasted no time getting on the scoresheet, slotting in a close-range effort just 12 minutes into the match. He added a second before half-time, showcasing his composure and finishing instincts, and completed the treble in style with a superbly taken free-kick in the second half.
As his performances continue to turn heads, questions surrounding his future are becoming more frequent. Following the match, Gyokeres was asked by the Portuguese press whether he liked London a city closely associated with his most persistent suitor, Arsenal. With a wry smile, the striker simply replied, “I like Lisbon,” a three-word response that many have taken as a playful deflection rather than a firm denial.
Pressed further on the possibility of a summer move and any developments concerning his reported €100 million release clause, Gyokeres maintained an air of mystery. “My future? No one can predict what will happen. We enjoy the moment,” he said. When quizzed about whether an agreement had been reached with Sporting to lower the clause, he kept things vague: “Can’t say anything about that.”
Despite his cool demeanor, speculation linking him with a Premier League switch particularly to the Emirates is intensifying. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is determined to bring in a reliable, high-scoring number nine ahead of next season. With the Gunners aiming to challenge on multiple fronts, attacking reinforcements have become a top priority.
Arteta recently emphasized the importance of depth and quality to compete across all competitions. “Squad quality and availability without those, we cannot compete in four competitions. The higher the quality, the higher the availability, the more chances you have,” he stated. Gyokeres’ consistent form and physical profile seem to fit the bill perfectly.
New Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta is believed to be heavily involved in identifying attacking targets, and Gyokeres reportedly sits near the top of the list. His blend of power, movement, and lethal finishing has made him an attractive prospect, not just to Arsenal but also to other English giants like Manchester United, Liverpool, and Manchester City, who are all keeping tabs on his situation.
Although his current contract features a release clause of approximately £85 million, there are whispers that Sporting could be willing to negotiate for a slightly reduced fee. Whether Arsenal are prepared to meet the full valuation or seek a compromise remains to be seen, but the north London club may need to act quickly if they wish to secure his signature ahead of rival suitors.
Alternative options such as Alexander Isak, Benjamin Sesko, and Hugo Ekitike are also under consideration, yet none match Gyokeres’ current output or momentum. With the summer transfer window approaching, his future is becoming one of the most intriguing sagas to watch.
