Mikel Arteta might have to make his stance on Viktor Gyokeres clear sooner rather than later with Manchester United hot on the Sweden striker's heels.
The Arsenal boss seems to have spent a large part of the summer transfer window debating whether to pursue Gyokeres or Benjamin Sesko. Arteta is keen to bolster his attacking unit, and those two have shared top spot on the Spaniard's shortlist since the 2024/2025 campaign ended.
After weeks of indecisiveness, it appears that Arsenal have chosen Gyokeres as their forward of choice - and the Sporting CP player reportedly wants to join the Gunners. But a proposed move to the Emirates Stadium wouldn't be his only option.
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Manchester United have also been heavily linked with the 27-year-old. Ruben Amorim worked with Gyokeres at Sporting, before he moved to Old Trafford, and the two are said to have a strong working relationship. Journalist Ben Jacobs believes this could be essential in the transfer battle.
Speaking with Betway, he said: "Ruben Amorim would love to be reunited with Viktor Gyokeres and, if he doesn't go to Arsenal, then that could still be a possibility.
"Contrary to some reports, Gyokeres has never rejected Manchester United, he just made it clear that he would welcome a bid from Arsenal. But Arsenal are looking at Gyokeres and Benjamin Sesko, so were they to do Sesko over Gyokeres, then Manchester United could still enter that race.
"And I think Gyokeres would be the ideal choice for Ruben Amorim because they've worked together before, and he's got a proven track record of scoring if that deal doesn't come off.”
Despite Gyokeres making his intention to leave clear, Sporting don't need to sell their star man. His contract does not run out until 2028, so the Portuguese champions could hold on to him.
However, Arsenal have reportedly agreed a five-year deal with the Sweden regular and are now in advanced talks with Sporting over a fee. The Gunners are understood to be willing to reach a £51.6m valuation for the striker, with Gyokeres' representatives receiving a £6.2m fee.
If Arsenal decided to favour Sesko amid their striker saga, there's a chance they could face Gyokeres in the Premier League - but in a Manchester United shirt.
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