A shock report claims that in-demand Sporting forward Viktor Gyokeres has finally made a decision on his next club and has rejected a Premier League side.
Gyokeres, 27, has been heavily linked with a move away from Sporting after an impressive 2024/25 campaign, during which he produced 54 goals and 13 assists in 52 appearances for the Portuguese champions.
His electric form has attracted interest from several clubs, including Arsenal, Manchester United, Paris Saint-Germain and Saudi Arabian sides.
Earlier this week, journalist Fabrizio Romano claimed United had “made contact” over a possible move for the Sweden international.
However, a report from Portuguese publication Record claims Arsenal made a first offer for the marksman after a meeting in Spain.
Viktor Gyokeres in action for Sporting (Credit:Getty)
Then the deal was described as being “seriously infected”, as it emerged that Gyokeres’ agent claims to have evidence in writing that Sporting promised him to let him go for €60 million + €10 million, according to Aftonbladet.
Sporting president Frederico Varandas then addressed the media and shared his thoughts on the complex situation.
He said: “The agent spoke to us to add some clauses. Hugo Viana, as he always did, and very well, managed the relationship with the agents. This relational space is established with the sports director.”
Before he added: “Hugo Viana negotiated with the agents over several meetings until the agent demanded the presence of the president.
“At this meeting, which included the president, the agent and Viana, Gyokeres was not present. He wanted to guarantee certain things. And what was agreed? That Sporting would not demand a release clause now. For one reason: he was going to be 27 years old, and no player leaves Portugal at 27 for 100 or 90 million euros.
Viktor Gyokeres with the Portuguese Cup (Credit:Getty)
“In that same meeting, the agent wanted to anchor the exit to a value. I said this sentence: ‘It’s not worth us setting a value because I don’t know what will happen in a year’s time. I don’t know if it will be 40, 60 or 80. What I can guarantee is that I will not demand 100 million euros. From then on, I never spoke to the agent again, I never spoke to the player about departures or values.
“Now I see the agent in the press releasing information. I want to make one thing clear: Sporting has common sense and keeps its word. Gyokeres scored 63 goals and 10 assists. Fantastic performance. Certainly one of the best players to have ever stepped onto Portuguese turf. And Sporting will not demand the clause.
“Now, blackmail and insults, Sporting will not accept. One thing is certain: Sporting will not accept 60 million plus 10. As of today, Sporting has not received any proposal for Gyokeres.”
Another report has since emerged via Portuguese outlet Record, which claims the player has decided not to move to United and favours a move to Arsenal, as the Gunners are reportedly preparing a second offer.
