Viktor Gyokeres wanted by huge European club as Arsenal transfer domino falls

Arsenal striker Viktor Gyokeres could leave the club this summer amid reported interest from a European club.

The Sweden international signed for the Gunners from Sporting CP for an initial fee of £55 million last summer.

He scored 14 Premier League goals in his first season at the Emirates Stadium to help Arsenal to become champions for the first time since 2004.

He was criticised during the campaign, particularly over his link-up play and his lack of involvement in certain matches, though did still end up as the club's top scorer across all competitions with 21 goals.

Arsenal haven't strengthened up front this summer in a clear indication that they plan to stick with Gyokeres, though have been in the market for a new attacker.

Real Madrid's Vinicius Junior and Atletico Madrid's Julian Alvarez have both been identified as targets, though Vinicius won't be joining the club after agreeing a new six-year contract with Los Blancos.

Barcelona have also been pursuing a move to sign Alvarez as one of their long-term targets.

But according to Spanish outlet El Nacional, Barca sporting director Deco is ready to step in and ask president Joan Laporta to halt efforts to sign Alvarez, believing him to be 'exceedingly expensive'.

It is claimed that Deco recommended the signing of Joao Pedro from Chelsea, though the Brazilian has since signed a new long-term contract at Stamford Bridge.

Instead, Deco's 'new strategy' is said to involve signing a new centre-back, with Aymeric Laporte one of the main candidates, and a centre forward.

Barcelona 'exploring' Viktor Gyokeres transfer

The report adds that Barcelona are 'exploring all options' for a new number nine, with Gyokeres among the names discussed.

Barca are said to be happy to sign an alternative to Alvarez 'even if he is less of a galactic profile'.

Alongside Gyokeres, the club have also discussed possible moves for Ayoze Perez, Serhou Guirassy and Lautaro Martinez among others.

Their interest in Gyokeres could not only allow Arsenal to potentially make a profit on a player they signed for a potential fee of £62 million, but also use part of the funds to splash out on Alvarez.

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The Argentine, who is contracted to Atletico until 2030, submitted a public transfer request at this summer's World Cup.

"I spoke with people at the club, with those I had to speak with, and the best thing for everyone is a transfer and I want to fulfil my dream," he told reporters after Argentina's 3-0 win over Austria in the group stages.

"It's not the time to talk about this, but I also can't hide it. I try to be an honest person."

Atletico Madrid CEO Miguel Angel Gil Marin stated that the club had 'made it known' to Alvarez and Barcelona that they would not be selling him, stating their asking price was 'unlimited'.

It remains to be seen if that stance changes if Arsenal come in for the 26-year-old.