EXCLUSIVE: Newcastle continue Gyokeres push amid Isak fear

Steve Kay

Updated: 20 Jan 2025 16:59 GMT
3 min read

FootballTransfers understands that Newcastle United have held fresh talks over a potential move for Viktor Gyokeres.

Article continues under the video

We exclusively revealed in early December that, contrary to reports elsewhere, it was actually the Magpies who were the club most active in pursuit of the Sporting CP striker.

Sources with knowledge of the situation have now informed us that this hasn't changed over the past month or so. In fact, we are told that Newcastle recently had new discussions over Gyokeres.

The Swede has a €100 million release clause but it is no secret that Sporting CP have agreed to put him on the market for a reduced fee in the summer.

Newcastle's interest in the 26-year-old is primarily driven by concerns over the future of Alexander Isak. The Magpies' sharpshooter has repeatedly insisted that he is happy at St. James' Park but he is well aware of the fact that he has high-profile admirers.

Arsenal are known to hold the Swede in high esteem, yet we understand that Liverpool are among his most persistent suitors and are best positioned to strike a deal in the future.

Gyokeres to Man Utd unlikely

Regarding Gyokeres, we have also once again been made aware that a move to Man Utd is highly unlikely as things stand despite the fact that the striker has an excellent relationship with Ruben Amorim.

The Sporting hotshot is in his peak years and a move to Old Trafford would be seen as a step backwards due to the current state of Man Utd. Gyokeres turns 27 in June and a move to a side without Champions League - or European football altogether - is out of the question.

Of course, the same also applies to Newcastle, who endured a slow start to the season. However, the Magpies now sit fifth in the standings and will fancy their chances of returning to Europe's premier competition.

This could give them an important edge in the chase for Gyokeres and it won't be lost on the 33-goal man that Eddie Howe, Paul Mitchell and company are already putting in the work behind the scenes.