Sporting manager Rui Borges hints at possible Viktor Gyokeres move amid Premier League interest

Sporting CP manager Rui Borges has hinted at a possible move for their prolific striker Viktor Gyokeres to the Premier League next season.

The Sporting manager revealed that their star man, Gyokeres, could leave the club in the future due to interest from English giants Arsenal and Manchester United.

His manager has showered praise on the striker, calling him “the best in the league”.

Gyokeres has been nothing but the best striker in Liga Portugal since his move from Championship side Coventry City to Sporting CP in 2023, going on to score 86 goals in 96 appearances so far.

But manager Rui Borges has hinted that the Sweden striker could leave the club in the future, amid strong interest from Premier League giants Arsenal and Manchester United.

Speaking to reporters, the Portuguese coach hinted at a possible move for the 26-year-old’s exceptional qualities.

“Viktor is a player. I think there are no words. It is unlikely that another player of his quality will emerge in our league over the next few years.

“He is clearly above average. Sporting recognised his talent, and here we are. Fortunately, we have him at Sporting.

“We must make the most of the time we have with him because he is truly exceptional.

“I have said this before, and I will continue to say it: he brings a lot to the team, and his teammates are aware of what he contributes, which is why they look for him during games.

“The collective effort also plays a role, as no one can succeed alone.

“Viktor is a game-changer, and he will continue to be, whether with us or elsewhere. His quality is undeniable; it is phenomenal.”

He added: “He is the best in the league, clearly. There are no adjectives to describe Viktor. He is an extraordinary striker, very important to our team, he has helped the team to grow with confidence, quality of play, he passes it on to his team-mates.

“He is a focused player, who pays attention to details, he is competitive, never lets his guard down, and doesn’t want to rest. Maybe today he could rest. It is a young team, and he, as an athlete, player and teammate, instils confidence in his team-mates with what he gives to the team.”

According to other reports from Correio da Manha last week, the Portuguese club are expected to demand a transfer fee in between €80-90m.

The same reports have also indicated that the Gunners are expected to include one of their players in a player-plus-cash deal to secure the striker’s signature in the summer, as Arsenal intends to “do big things” in the next transfer window.