Liverpool are reportedly planning to hijack Arsenal move for Viktor Gyökeres, with the Sporting CP striker identified as a potential replacement for Darwin Núñez, whose future at Anfield remains uncertain.

Liverpool Targeting Gyökeres

New Liverpool manager Arne Slot is eager to strengthen his attacking options, and according to Portuguese outlet Correio da Manhã, the Reds are preparing to disrupt Arsenal pursuit of the Swedish forward. The Merseyside club has already instructed intermediaries to inquire about the exact asking price for the 26-year-old, whose release clause is reportedly set at $116 million, although Sporting may be open to negotiating a lower fee.

Two Premier League Giants in the Race

Gyökeres has made it clear to Sporting that he wants to leave this summer following a sensational season, where he emerged as one of Europe’s top scorers. While Arsenal has been leading the race in recent weeks, Liverpool are now ready to make a serious push to outbid their Premier League rivals.

The striker has already turned down a potential reunion with former manager Rúben Amorim at Manchester United and is carefully considering his next move.

Darwin Replacement in the Works?

Correio da Manhã also reports that Liverpool see Gyökeres as the ideal candidate to replace Darwin Núñez, who has agreed personal terms with Napoli, though no final transfer fee has been reached with the Serie A champions.

Liverpool views the Swedish international as a key addition to maintain their Premier League title ambitions and strengthen their squad ahead of a return to the UEFA Champions League.

Sporting Not Willing to Let Him Go Easily

Despite growing interest, Sporting are unwilling to let their star striker leave without a fight. Club president Frederico Varandas strongly rejected suggestions that a fixed transfer fee had been agreed before the summer window and took aim at the player’s agent:

“Threats, blackmail, and insults don’t work with me,” Varandas stated.

“I can guarantee that Viktor Gyökeres will not leave for $70 million because I never made that promise.

This game the agent is playing only makes the situation worse.”

Gyökeres Ready to Force a Move

Reports from Portugal claim that Gyökeres is now prepared to go on strike to force a transfer, with Arsenal being his preferred destination. Manchester United have also shown strong interest, but their lack of European competition next season puts them at a disadvantage.

The future of Viktor Gyökeres remains uncertain. Will he join Arsenal, switch to Liverpool, or will another contender enter the race? The next few weeks will be crucial in determining where the Swedish striker will land.