The Gunners, along with a number of other top European teams, have long been linked with a move for the world-class Sweden international striker.
Ruben Amorim, who managed Gyokeres over in the Portuguese capital, is hoping to convince the 26-year-old to pick Manchester United instead.
But according to fresh reports from L’Équipe, Arsenal have now decided they are ‘no longer reluctant to pay’ Gyokeres’ €100m release clause, moving them a step closer to bringing in the former Coventry City star, with no other club happy to fork out that much for him at this moment in time.
The Gunners would still need to agree personal terms with Gyokeres, who is determined to join one of the very best teams in Europe.
Arsenal’s desperation for a new striker has only grown following the recent injury to Gabriel Jesus, who has torn the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee.
Even before that setback, Arsenal had been urged to recruit a new, world-class striker to aid them in their quest for the Premier League trophy.
Vitoria SC v Sporting Clube de Portugal - Liga Portugal Betclic
Viktor Gyokeres would be cheaper than Alexander Isak
Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak is thought to be Arsenal’s No.1 target – but with the Magpies thought to want a minimum of £150m to even enter negotiations – it looks like he will end up being too expensive.
Gyokeres would be a cheaper option, if Arsenal do decide to activate his €100m (£84m) release clause during the January transfer window.
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Viktor Gyokeres has scored 15 goals in 26 games for Sweden
Gyokeres has been in fine form for Sporting Lisbon this season, conjuring up 32 goals and six assists across 30 games in all competitions.
‘We will see,’ Gyokeres told Spanish publication Marca about his future last month.
‘There are many rumours circulating, but we are in the middle of the season and there are still many months left. We will see when the time comes what will happen.’
Asked where he sees himself playing at the age of 30, Gyokeres replied: ‘Playing for one of the best teams in Europe. That is the objective.’
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