Viktor Gyokeres sends Arsenal clear transfer message ahead of huge summer decision

Sporting Lisbon centre-forward Viktor Gyokeres continued to show his class to Arsenal on Tuesday night after scoring in his team's Taca de Portugal semi-final against Rio Ave.

Gyokeres was on target in the second half as Sporting won 2-1 on the night, 4-1 on aggregate to progress to the final of the competition where they are likely to meet Benfica. The Swede has now scored a whopping 48 goals in 47 appearances this season.

Unsurprisingly, such incredible form has seen the forward linked with a host of Premier League clubs and Arsenal, along with Manchester United, are seen as the frontrunners for his signature. Posting on Instagram after the full-time whistle, Gyokeres shared a picture of his goal with the caption: "Let's go."

The Swede's future in Lisbon has been of much interested ahead of the summer transfer window. It is understood that an £85m release clause is inserted into his contract.

However, several reports have suggested that Gyokeres has a gentleman's agreement in place that would see him leave the Lisbon club for a lot less this summer. Figures as low as £55m have been mooted as being possible after Sporting agreed to lower the asking price as a thank you for his efforts since moving to the club from Coventry City.

Gyokeres has spoken about his future recently. When asked about the prospect of his release clause being lowered, the striker remained tight-lipped.

However, when cheekily asked if he liked London, he replied: "I like Lisbon."

Last summer, the Gunners created a profile for the perfect striker to add to their squad. Mikel Arteta and former sporting director Edu agreed that a tall, quick and strong centre-forward would be needed to improve the attack.

Newcastle United's Alexander Isak is thought to be the 'dream' signing for the north London club however his price tag could make him unattainable. His fellow countryman Gyokeres is seen as a more realistic target though.

Arsenal have been left light in attack during the second half of the season following injuries to Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus, and Gyokeres' ability to find the back of the net and fire his side to a final will send a clear message to the club's decision-makers as they work out how to rectify the situation in the summer transfer window.

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