Viktor Gyökeres is on everyone's lips. His performance at Sporting Lisbon has been so phenomenal that it has made him one of the most desired gems in the market. His impact in the Portuguese league and international competitions has caught the attention of several European soccer giants.
At 26 years old, the Swedish forward is ready for the definitive leap. With a devastating mix of power, finishing, and ability to associate, his profile fits into the plans of the continent's most ambitious clubs. Not only that: his numbers this season place him in a league of his own.
More than 70 million and a race to close his signing
Gyökeres has recorded the astonishing figure of 52 goals and 13 assists in all competitions. A performance that has pushed Sporting to fight for the league until the last breath, and that has raised his valuation to figures exceeding 70 million euros. An amount that, far from intimidating, has activated the machinery in key offices across Europe.
Arsenal, Atlético Madrid, and, to a lesser extent, FC Barcelona have shown varying degrees of interest. But the real battle is being fought by the English and the Madrid team.
In London, Arsenal has reportedly made a formal offer, willing to pay the clause and offer a lucrative contract. Five seasons and 200,000 euros per week.
Mikel Arteta sees Gyökeres as the '9' they've been missing for years. A player capable of sustaining the attack, finishing reliably, and offering tactical options in big matches. British media like The Mirror or Daily Star are already talking about a preliminary agreement.
Barça, without real margin to enter the bidding
In Barcelona, however, the interest has been more symbolic than real. Financial Fair Play restrictions and the high cost of the transfer have quickly ruled out any culé movement. The player's entourage hasn't had recent contacts with the blaugrana sports management either.
Meanwhile, efforts have intensified at Atlético Madrid. Diego Simeone has identified the Swede as the ideal piece to complete his attack. A perfect complement to Julián Álvarez, and a profile that fits the Argentine coach's tactical demands: intensity, commitment, goals, and a winning mentality.
The red-and-white club has reacted in the last 48 hours. They have reactivated contacts, proposed a flexible payment structure, and are determined to match Arsenal's salary conditions. Additionally, they are preparing strategic exits to open both sporting and financial space.
An imminent decision with a taste of LaLiga
As of today, the balance is tipping toward Madrid. Although Arsenal had the advantage, Atlético's final offensive has repositioned the board. The next few hours could be decisive, and everything points to Gyökeres being on the verge of becoming the signing of the summer in LaLiga.
From his entourage, they insist that the decision hasn't been made yet. But the scenario has changed: Atlético has not only matched the proposal but offers a project where Gyökeres would be the absolute protagonist.
Spanish soccer could welcome one of the great sensations of the moment. Atlético, if nothing goes wrong, would finally have the 'killer' they've been searching for so long.