Sunderland roped into Viktor Gyokeres transfer saga amid ‘monster offers’

Viktor Gyokeres has become one of the biggest transfer topics of the summer.

Gyokeres, 27, has been at the centre of a tug-of-war between Arsenal and Manchester United this summer, with both sides in need of attacking reinforcements.

The Gunners look to be ahead in the race to sign the Swede, who has gone on strike to force a move away from the Portuguese capital.

Sunderland, meanwhile, have been one of the most active sides in the window so far, making multiple moves to strengthen their side ahead of their Premier League return.

Gyokeres is not on their list of targets, yet the Black Cats have been dragged into the drama around the Portuguese golden boot winner’s transfer status.

Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris holding his hood
Credit: Imago

Sporting interested in Sunderland target Luis Suarez

Sunderland hold an interest in Almeria striker Luis Suarez, following his incredible season in the Spanish second tier.

However, interest in the Colombian is rapidly growing, and Record (pages 5-6, July 6) reports that Sporting CP have Suarez at the top of their list to replace Gyokeres this summer.

The report claims that Sunderland are pushing to gain an advantage in the race for the Almeria man’s signature.

A Bola reports that several clubs are interested in Suarez, including United, Juventus, Atletico Madrid, and Liverpool, with Sporting being the only club to have expressed interest so far.

In terms of the Swedish international, Record are reporting that Gyokeres has rejected substantial offers from Al-Hilal and Al-Qadisiyah.

The Sporting striker is reportedly holding out for a move to Arsenal, with the North London side still discussing whether to pursue Gyokeres or Benjamin Sesko.

Sunderland need to be quick to secure Suarez’s services

Sunderland have done incredible business so far in the window, often getting deals done very quickly behind the scenes.

Their ruthless efficiency needs to be used again here to get the signing of Suarez over the line.

CompetitionAppearancesGoalsAssists
LaLiga241278
Copa del Rey240
Suarez’s stats last season

If the Colombian can bring his goalscoring consistency over to England, his goals could keep the Black Cats in the Premier League.

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