Manchester City join Arsenal in pursuit of 26-year-old striker as potential Erling Haaland successor amid Barcelona links: Reports

Manchester City have reportedly joined Arsenal in the hunt for Sporting striker Viktor Gyokeres amid Erling Haaland's links with Real Madrid and Barcelona. Sky Sports claims that the Norway international is also interested in a move to Spain (via Mirror).

However, the move seems complicated, with the player reportedly having a €150 million release clause in his contract. Currently, Haaland's contract will see him remain with at the Etihad till the summer of 2027.

Should the 24-year-old be moving on soon, Guardiola and Co., will need an able replacement, given the striker's prominence in Manchester. Gyokeres could be the man for the job, a player who has been linked with the Gunners for a while now.

The Sweden international has been on fire this campaign, having scored 13 times and bagged five assists in 13 appearances across competitions. Last season, he netted on 43 occasions in 50 matches in all competitions.

If the aforementioned reports about Manchester City and Arsenal are true, Gyokeres will have a difficult decision to make. Both teams are poised to challenge for the Premier League title this campaign and will be looking to go deep into the Champions League.

As opposed to the Etihad, there is space for an orthodox number nine at the Emirates. Currently, Kai Havertz, who initially played in midfield under Mikel Arteta, leads the line for Arsenal, while Gabriel Jesus has failed to impress.

Until Haaland's move to Spain materialises, it would be fairly risky to join Manchester City, given the 26-year-old's game time would be limited.

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Arsenal to battle Barcelona for Aston Villa striker, with ex-Manchester City star set to leave- Reports

Jhon Duran

Arsenal are reportedly set to battle Barcelona for the services of Aston Villa striker Jhon Duran. This is according to a report from Spanish outlet Fichajes, who also say that the Gunners have an edge in this race (via CaughtOffSide).

The temptation to join the Emirates could be furthered, with the aforementioned report claiming that Gabriel Jesus could be leaving north London. The former Manchester City striker has struggled for fitness throughout his time at Arsenal while also failing to make a real impact when fit.

Barcelona are on the backfoot for this signing because of the €90 million asking price. Given the Catalans haven't spent big in recent times, it's unlikely that they would splash the cash for Duran.

The Colombian is currently the second choice at Aston Villa, behind Ollie Watkins, despite his brilliant performances off the bench. A move away to Barcelona or to the Emirates could benefit him.