Reports indicate that Arsenal’s sporting director travelled late last week to advance negotiations for Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyökeres. After briefly returning to the UK, he flew back to Portugal to push the deal forward with Sporting officials.
Speaking to O Jogo at the end of June, Sporting president Frederico Varandas made it clear that the club is under no pressure to sell the prolific Swedish striker.
“Sporting no longer needs to sell its key players. We’re open to players’ ambitions, but I can guarantee Viktor will not be sold for €70 million [€60m + €10m in add-ons],” said Varandas. “This isn’t about making a profit—it’s a firm no. However, after weeks of discussions, we’ve committed not to demand his full release clause and will remain reasonable with the price.”
While the exact figure remains undisclosed, it has reportedly been communicated to Gyökeres and his representatives.
Gyökeres had a sensational season, scoring 39 goals and registering eight assists in 33 league games, helping Sporting win back-to-back titles. He also netted a crucial equaliser in the Taça de Portugal final against Benfica, securing a domestic double. With top European clubs circling, a high-profile move now appears imminent.
