Sports: Gyökeres Pushes for Arsenal Move as Sporting Standoff Intensifies

LISBON / LONDON, June 14, 2025 — Swedish striker Viktor Gyökeres has become the central figure in a high-stakes summer transfer battle, with Arsenal emerging as clear frontrunners despite resistance from his current club, Sporting Lisbon.

In the eye of the storm! Victor Gyokeres, the Swedish striker at the center of a transfer saga!

At the heart of the dispute is an alleged “gentleman’s agreement” between Gyökeres’ camp and Sporting, which reportedly allowed the striker to leave for £60 million (€70m) plus add-ons. Sporting president Frederico Varandas has publicly denied the existence of any such agreement and insists no formal bid has yet met the club’s expectations. While he is open to negotiation below the £84 million (€100m) release clause, Sporting are not willing to drop to the figure suggested by Gyökeres’ representatives.

The 27-year-old Swedish international, who netted nearly 40 goals last season, is said to be frustrated by the stalled talks and has refused to feature for Sporting while the impasse continues.

While Manchester United initially showed strong interest, Gyökeres has now ruled out a move to Old Trafford, making it clear that a switch to Arsenal is his dream, largely due to the club’s Champions League status and ambitious project under Mikel Arteta.

Arsenal’s opening offer of £55 million was rejected, but sources confirm that the North London club is preparing a second bid in the region of £60–£65 million plus bonuses. The Gunners’ technical director was involved in face-to-face negotiations with Sporting officials in Menorca earlier this week, a signal of Arsenal’s serious intent to complete the deal.

Despite exploring other options most notably RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Šeško as a backup, Arsenal remain focused on landing Gyökeres as their primary forward target.

Notably, former club Coventry City will not benefit from a sell-on clause, having reportedly sold their rights in 2024 to raise £18 million for internal squad development.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has confirmed the player's desire to join Arsenal, stating that Gyökeres “prioritizes the move” above all others. Romano also pointed to the “tense situation” between player and club, adding that while Manchester United continue to monitor developments daily, Arsenal are currently “actively pursuing” a deal and have not committed to any alternative striker signing.

Mikel Arteta, Arsenal Coach

Viktor Gyökeres wants Arsenal. Arsenal want Gyökeres. The only thing standing in the way is Sporting’s valuation. With both sides locked in negotiations, the ball is now firmly in Arsenal’s court to make a decisive offer before another contender enters or re-enters the race.