Sporting CP coach Rui Borges has admitted that the club is already preparing for the post-Viktor Gyokeres era.
The Lisbon club saw Geovany Quenda sign a move to Chelsea, who are also in a position to sign Dario Essugo, and are preparing for the departure of Swedish international Gyokeres, a move that will have a major immediate impact on the team.
The 26-year-old has scored around a goal per game all season, and although he has a €100 million release clause, Sporting will allow him to leave for a more attractive price, reports A Bola. Manchester United appear to be the favorites for Gyokeres at the moment, although Arsenal or Chelsea could quickly turn to the former Coventry City striker, both of whom are in the market for a number 9.
Real Madrid are also interested. Fichajes reports that the Whites have decided to enter the fray for the player, who could offer the traditional center-forward profile that is lacking at the Bernabéu.
“If Gyokeres leaves…”
Sporting coach Rui Borges has openly admitted that his team accepts the need to find a replacement for the striker. “I’m not focusing on next season, but rather on the next two and a half months,” he told the media. “Viktor is important for Sporting, we don’t ignore that. He has been important, and not just for me. He has been for some time.
“I’m happy to have him, to work with him, for everything he is, from an athlete to a person, and for what he gives every day. He’s an example of discipline in training, of respecting our demands. I’m happy to be able to enjoy him while he’s here.” When he’s not here… we’ll find another Viktor Gyokeres or another Conrad Harder.”
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