Atletico plot Gyokeres swoop amid exit rumours for Sorloth and Alvarez

Viktor Gyokeres has emerged as one of Europe's standout players, and this summer, he could leave Sporting Lisbon for one of Europe's top five leagues. On Monday, Record reported that Atletico Madrid have become the frontrunners to sign him.

The Portuguese outlet claims that Atletico are preparing to make three major attacking sales. One is expected—Angel Correa—but the other two, Alexander Sorloth and Julian Alvarez, would be far more painful. The club reportedly plan to use the funds from these departures to finance Gyokeres' arrival.

Atletico are unlikely to secure the striker without first offloading players as the report states that Sporting have set an asking price of around €65–70 million plus bonuses for the 26-year-old. It's a hefty sum, but one that reflects the Swedish forward's outstanding performances in Portugal over the last two seasons.

Having joined Sporting from Coventry City in the summer of 2023 for €20 million, Gyokeres has been prolific, netting 97 goals in 102 matches. He shattered his previous season's record of 43 goals by scoring 54 this term, also providing 28 assists (15 last season, 13 this season).

While the Portuguese press appears confident that Atletico's star forwards will be leaving this summer, there are no firm rumours in Spain as yet.

Julian Alvarez has become a symbol of the team, fully justifying his €75 million transfer fee with 29 goals in 54 appearances. Diego Simeone is reportedly determined not to lose him under any circumstances.

The same applies to Sorloth, who has been La Liga's top super-sub. For now, both players are set to feature in the Club World Cup.