Arsenal fans have been given fresh hope in their club’s pursuit of a top-class striker after midfielder Declan Rice subtly endorsed Viktor Gyokeres on social media. The England international, who has become a fan favourite at the Emirates, was among the hundreds of thousands to like Gyokeres’ celebratory Instagram post, where the Sporting CP star marked his team’s latest Portuguese league triumph.
Gyokeres, who has enjoyed an extraordinary season with 53 goals and 13 assists in all competitions, played a central role in guiding Sporting to the title ahead of fierce rivals Benfica. The 26-year-old’s standout performances have naturally placed him in the spotlight of Europe’s top clubs — with Arsenal emerging as one of the key contenders for his signature this summer.
The striker took to Instagram after Sporting’s final-day victory over Vitoria SC, posting jubilant pictures with the caption: “First time was so nice we had to do it twice [two trophy emojis].” This caught the attention of Rice, who liked the post despite not following Gyokeres on the platform — a detail that hasn’t gone unnoticed by Arsenal supporters eager for the club to sign a proven goal-scorer.
Though Rice’s like isn’t an outright confirmation of Arsenal’s transfer plans, it adds fuel to the ongoing rumours linking Gyokeres to North London. With a reported £54.6 million release clause in his contract, the Swedish striker represents a more attainable target compared to other elite forwards in the market.
However, Arsenal won’t have a free run at securing his services. Manchester United are reportedly prepared to enter the race, especially if they defeat Tottenham in the Europa League final and secure Champions League qualification. A potential reunion with former Sporting boss Ruben Amorim, who managed Gyokeres for 18 months, could further tilt the scales in United’s favour.
While Portuguese outlets remain optimistic about Arsenal’s chances, talkSPORT claims United’s interest is growing rapidly. For Arsenal, who are desperate to end their five-year silverware drought under Mikel Arteta, Gyokeres could be the long-awaited solution up front — and Rice’s online gesture might just be a subtle nudge in that direction.
