Arsenal plot move for £62m Alexander Isak alternative admired by Andrea Berta | Football

Viktor Gyokeres is now a prominent transfer target for Arsenal this summer as the Gunners look to bring in a new centre forward.

The Sweden international is wanted by a host of clubs across Europe amid another stunning campaign at Sporting Lisbon having scored 42 goals in 42 games in all competitions this term.

The 26-year-old has netted an incredible 85 goals in 92 games since arriving from Coventry City in 2023, thriving under Ruben Amorim in Portugal following his arrival.

Amorim is now eager to bring the Swede to Old Trafford but Manchester United are not thought to be among the front runners in the race to sign him.

Chelsea and Liverpool are also firm admirers in Gyokeres but Arsenal are now expected to step up their interest following the appointment of Andrea Berta as their new sporting director.

The Athletic report Gyokeres has ‘long been admired’ by Berta with the former Atletico Madrid chief set to play a key role in Arsenal’s recruitment drive this summer.

Newcastle United star Alexander Isak has been Arsenal’s top target to lead their attack and is Mikel Arteta’s favoured option to solve their issues up front.

But it would take an enormous fee to prise the 26-year-old away from St James’ Park with Newcastle hoping to tie him down to a new long-term deal.

Gyokeres could therefore represent a more realistic option for the Gunners.

The striker, who is believed to favour a move to England this summer, has a release clause of €100million (£83m) but could be allowed to leave for less than that with Sporting reportedly willing to accept between £63m and £70m for their prized asset.

Arsenal also have long-standing interest in RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko with United and Chelsea also keen on the Slovenia international.

But mounting interest from rival clubs means it is currently unclear whether Arsenal will pursue a move for the 21-year-old.

Arsenal’s troubles up top have been well documented with Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus both ruled out for the rest of the season.

With no other recognised striker option, Arteta has turned to Mikel Merino with the midfielder now deployed up top.

Arsenal saw a move for Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins turned away during the January transfer window and also discussed moves for Alvaro Morata and Mathys Tel.

Arteta insisted throughout January Arsenal would not rush into any panic buys.

‘If we can get the right player, that’s what we are actively looking at. But any player? No. We need someone that makes us better, and makes an impact on the team.’

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