Three factors putting Barcelona in prime position for €70 million forward – report

Barcelona are reportedly positioning themselves strongly to secure Sporting CP’s forward Viktor Gyokeres, as revealed by SPORT. 

The Catalan club seems to have three compelling advantages in their favour as they pursue the 26-year-old Swedish striker, who has quickly made a name for himself with his powerful style of play and finishing ability.

Barcelona have been monitoring Gyokeres for a while, impressed by his goal-scoring form in Portugal. However, Sporting are unlikely to let go of their prized asset easily. 

The forward is under contract until 2028, and Sporting value him at around €100 million. Yet, reports suggest Gyokeres has an agreement with the team that could allow him to leave for a sum lower than the club’s stated valuation—potentially around €60-70 million. 

This financial gap could open a pathway for Barcelona, who are eager to reduce the overall cost of the deal and explore creative ways to make the transfer feasible within their limited budget.

Then there is Roque

Vitor Roque could help Barcelona in their pursuit of Gyokeres. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

One way Barça might lower the fee is by including players in the negotiation. Vitor Roque, the talented Brazilian forward, could play a role here. 

Sporting already showed interest in Roque last summer, offering around €30 million for him, but the player chose to prioritise a move to La Liga instead. 

If Gyokeres departs Sporting, Roque could step in as his replacement, reducing the fee Barcelona would need to pay for the Swedish striker. This could help bridge the financial gap between Barça and Sporting.

The Trincao factor

Francisco Trincao’s sale could chip in money for Barcelona. (Photo by PATRICIA DE MELO MOREIRA/AFP via Getty Images)

Another key factor that could favour Barcelona is Francisco Trincao. The Catalan club holds a 50% stake in any future sale of Trincao, providing them with a potential financial boost if Sporting decide to sell him. 

Trincao has contributed three goals and seven assists in 16 appearances this season, attracting significant interest. This arrangement could allow Barça to recover funds through his sale.

In essence, Barcelona’s pursuit of Gyokeres rests on three factors: the possibility of a lower transfer fee of around €60-70 million, the inclusion of Roque as a potential Sporting replacement, and the financial leverage from their stake in Trincao’s future transfer.

*Player valuation in title obtained from transfermarkt.com on date of publication.