Man United Sign £100M-Rated Striker After Real Madrid Miss Out – Personal Terms Agreed, Deal CompletedViktor Gyökeres Sparks Transfer Standoff With Sporting CP Amid Interest From Manchester United and ArsenalManchester United’s pursuit of Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyökeres has taken a dramatic turn following a reported breakdown in trust between the player and his current club.
The Swedish international, who scored an astonishing 54 goals and registered 13 assists in 52 appearances last season, is now at the center of one of the summer’s biggest transfer sagas.Gyökeres and his representatives had initially anticipated a smooth departure, based on what they describe as a verbal agreement with Sporting to sanction a transfer for approximately €70 million. However, Sporting now insists on receiving the full €100 million release clause included in his contract, prompting a strong reaction from the player’s camp.According to reports, including from Fabrizio Romano, Gyökeres feels betrayed and has responded by refusing to report for pre-season training.
He has allegedly expressed his refusal to play for Sporting again, putting the Portuguese club in a challenging position as top European clubs circle with interest.
Among those clubs, Arsenal are reportedly leading the race, with the promise of Champions League football playing a key role in Gyökeres’ preference.
The striker has supposedly informed close contacts that a move to Mikel Arteta’s side is his expected next step.Meanwhile, Manchester United remain heavily interested.
The club’s new manager, Rúben Amorim, previously coached Gyökeres at Sporting and is keen on a reunion.
However, United’s lack of Champions League qualification, coupled with Sporting’s insistence on the full release clause, could complicate their chances of finalizing a deal.
As a result, United are also exploring alternative striker options, including Benjamin Sesko, Hugo Ekitike, and Moise Kean, while Chelsea’s Christopher Nkunku has reportedly emerged as a new target.Gyökeres’ decision to effectively go on strike adds urgency to the situation. Sporting are under increasing pressure but remain firm on their valuation. Despite the standoff, it now appears more likely that a transfer will happen, given the player’s firm stance and growing interest from elite clubs.
