Arsenal are reportedly preparing a fresh offer for Sporting Lisbon striker Viktor Gyokeres, who has indicated he does not wish to join Manchester United this summer. The 27-year-old Swedish international has been heavily linked with both Premier League clubs following another prolific season in Portugal, where his goals helped Sporting secure the league title.
According to Portuguese outlet Record, Gyokeres' representatives have informed Manchester United that he will not be moving to Old Trafford. The same report claims that Arsenal are now preparing a second bid for the forward, having already had an initial offer rejected by Sporting. The Portuguese club are said to be holding out for at least €70 million (£59.2m) before agreeing to sell their star player.
Gyokeres is understood to have an £85 million release clause in his contract, though earlier reports suggested the club would sanction his exit for around £59 million this summer. However, Sporting president Frederico Varandas has disputed this, stating categorically that Gyokeres will not leave for €60 million plus €10 million. Speaking in a press conference on Wednesday, Varandas said: 'I can guarantee that Viktor Gyokeres will not leave for €60m plus €10m because I never promised that.' He also confirmed that Sporting had not received any offers for the player, contrary to speculation.
Arsenal are also considering RB Leipzig's Benjamin Sesko as an alternative target, with both strikers expected to move this summer. The Gunners have held transfer talks regarding the Slovenian international, who also has a number of other suitors. It remains to be seen which direction Arsenal will ultimately take as they seek to bolster their attacking options ahead of the new season.
