Atletico Madrid aim high: the €75 million star to partner with Julian Alvarez

Atletico Madrid are preparing for a busy summer in the transfer market. With the season nearing its end and planning for the next campaign already underway, the club are evaluating several scenarios — especially in the attacking department. According to Diario Sport, the rojiblancos are closely monitoring Viktor Gyokeres, striker for Sporting CP, as a potential reinforcement for the 2025-26 season.

• 

  Recommended

  UEFA's unexpected decision after Champions League controversy: Julián Álvarez in the spotlight

The Swedish forward, who has been in outstanding form this season in the Portuguese league, has become one of the most sought-after names in European football. His stats speak volumes: goals, assists, and a constant threat in the opposition box. At Atletico, they see him as an ideal profile to freshen up a forward line that could undergo significant changes in the coming weeks.

The future of several key attackers remains uncertain. Antoine Griezmann has yet to confirm his continuity, Angel Correa could be looking for more game time elsewhere, and young Giuliano Simeone is considering offers after a season with limited opportunities. Given this scenario, the potential arrival of Gyokeres is gaining momentum as a strategic and immediate solution.

Beyond his goal-scoring ability, Gyokeres is known for his physical strength, hold-up play and intelligent movement between the lines. Standing at 1.87 metres, with strong link-up play, he could bring a different dynamic to the current Atletico attack, which lacks a direct, self-sufficient number nine — a profile Diego Simeone has long appreciated.

The main obstacle, as usual, will be financial. Sporting have made it clear they will not let him go for less than his release clause, which is close to 100 million euros. However, reports from Portugal suggest the Lisbon-based club would consider offers in the region of 60–70 million — a high price, but not impossible for Atletico, especially if major sales are completed this summer.

The connection with Jorge Mendes, instrumental in many recent Atletico deals, could be key in negotiations. The Portuguese agent enjoys an excellent relationship with both Sporting and the Metropolitano board. If Atletico decide to make a serious move for Gyokeres, they may already have a partially cleared path to do so.

The player’s own intentions could also play a role. Gyokeres has hinted that he would be open to a move to a more competitive league, and LaLiga — with a Champions League club competing for trophies every year — may be an ideal destination. At 26, the Swede is at the perfect age to take on a bigger challenge.

• 

  Recommended

  Neither Madrid, nor Man City, nor Messi's Inter Miami: The team that has sold the most tickets for the Club World Cup

A possible new era for Atletico's forward line

Bringing in Viktor Gyokeres would not just be another signing — it would be a statement. Atletico are looking to evolve without losing competitiveness, and the Swedish striker could be the new attacking reference point for years to come. With a long summer ahead and many moving pieces, his name is beginning to echo louder and louder around the Metropolitano.