Arsenal are holding direct discussions with Sporting Lisbon about signing Viktor Gyokeres, according to reports.

X account ‘Rising Stars XI’ claim to have an “exclusive” that “conversations” between the two clubs have “started.”

Usually, such an update would not get much attention due to the nature of the source, but Sky Sports Switzerland reporter Sacha Tavolieri responded to the post by saying:

“True!”

Tavolieri has a mixed track record when it comes to transfer stories but it appears that new sporting director Andrea Berta is stepping up plans to sign Gyokeres, having also recently held talks with the representatives of Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams.

Why is Gyokeres being pursued instead of Isak?

Up until very recently, it was believed that the Gunners’ top target was Newcastle’s Alexander Isak but journalist David Ornstein has stated over the past week that Mikel Arteta’s side have been put off by the player’s “extortionate” asking price.

Berta appears to have decided to pursue Isak’s Swedish international teammate instead, who is said to be available for around €70m (£59m).

Will Arsenal have competition for the striker?

The likes of Manchester United, Manchester City and Liverpool have been credited with an interest in Gyokeres. United specifically have strong links due to the fact that their head coach Ruben Amorim used to manage the forward.

However, the Red Devils have yet to formalise their transfer budget ahead of the summer transfer window. If they don’t qualify for Europe, it is felt that they will have to cut their cloth accordingly.

The means Arsenal may have a chance to secure Gyokeres’s signature if they make their move early, and that seems to be what Berta is doing by holding talks with Sporting. We shall see if it leads to a formal bid being lodged.

Read our exclusive interview with Danny Murphy as he makes a bold prediction about Myles Lewis-Skelly’s future

If you would like to read more stories like this, visit this page for Arsenal Transfer News. You can also keep up to date via our Facebook page and follow us on X