Erling Haaland to scupper dream Arsenal transfer plan as Man City confirm Sporting CP signing

Manchester City are reportedly eyeing up a swoop for Viktor Gyokeres, as they prepare for life after Erling Haaland. The 24-year-old striker, who joined the Premier League champions from Borussia Dortmund in 2022, has been a revelation at the Etihad Stadium, scoring an impressive 101 goals in 109 appearances.

Haaland has also helped Pep Guardiola's side lift two Premier League titles, the Champions League and the FA Cup. But, with Real Madrid showing interest and Sky Sports reporting that the Norway international is keen on a move to Spain, Manchester City may need to look elsewhere.

It's suggested that Haaland could make the switch to the Santiago Bernabeu in 2026, with his €150million (£125m) release clause set to expire in 2027. Despite Manchester City's efforts to tie him down to a new deal, it appears their attempts have been in vain.

As such, Gyokeres, who has been in fine form since joining Sporting from Coventry last year, netting 55 goals in 62 games, is being touted as a potential replacement. The Mirror and Sky Sports state that the Premier League champions are already in talks with the Arsenal target's entourage.

Interestingly, Sporting's current director of football is set to join Manchester City at the end of the season. Hugo Viana will take over from Txiki Begiristain at the Etihad Stadium, who has held the role for 12 years.

"Manchester City can confirm that Txiki Begiristain will step away from his full-time role as Director of Football at the end of the 2024/25 season," read a club statement. "After a successful 12-year stint at the Etihad Stadium, Txiki will step down from his current role following Manchester City's participation in this summer's FIFA Club World Cup.

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"He will be succeeded by Hugo Viana of Sporting CP. Viana will officially take over in the summer of 2025, but will work closely with Txiki in the months leading up to ensure a seamless transition. We look forward to honouring Txiki's remarkable contribution to Manchester City at the end of the season."

Viana, who made 39 Premier League appearances for Newcastle during his playing career, has been instrumental behind the scenes at Sporting during their recent success under highly-regarded manager Ruben Amorim.

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