Joan Laporta is alert. The president of FC Barcelona knows that next summer will be key to strengthening the team. With the urgent need for goals, the club is already exploring options that fit with its sports project.
Among the reports that have reached the president's office, there is one name that stands out. A forward who has just delivered a spectacular performance, scoring four goals in a single match and making it clear that he is ready to make the leap to a European giant.
A Performance That Hasn't Gone Unnoticed
It is Viktor Gyökeres, a Swedish forward for Sporting de Portugal, who is having a dream season. Gyökeres was the main protagonist in Sporting's thrashing of Boavista. The Lisbon team won 0-5, and the striker scored a "poker" of goals that left everyone speechless.
His performance not only served to add three vital points. It has also placed Sporting in the thick of the fight for the league title, tied on points with Benfica.
But the most impressive thing is his goal tally. Viktor already has 38 goals in just 30 league matches. Truly world-class numbers.
Going for the Golden Boot
Gyökeres's performance isn't limited to Portugal. He is also competing for the European Golden Boot.
Currently, the Swede even surpasses Mohamed Salah, who seemed to have the award in the bag. Salah has 28 goals in the Premier League, but goals in England are worth more points than in Portugal. Even so, Gyökeres has 57 points compared to the Egyptian's 56.
Another sign that we are dealing with a lethal forward. A player who not only scores but dominates.
Barça Needs Goals
Laporta and his technical team are clear that Barça needs goals. This season has made it clear that a number nine is needed to ensure 20 or 30 goals per season.
Viktor Gyökeres fits that profile, young, powerful, fast, and with a remarkable ease for finding the net. That's why Barça has already initiated contacts. Laporta wants to get ahead of other big clubs that are also closely following the Swede.
A Complicated but Possible Operation
However, it won't be easy. Gyökeres has a contract with Sporting, and his clause isn't low. Figures above 60 million euros are being discussed.
However, at Barça, they know that investing in goals is investing in titles. And Laporta is willing to make an effort if Hansi gives the green light to the operation.