Arsenal’s pursuit of Viktor Gyokeres has taken a dramatic turn, with the prolific striker said to be “very unhappy” after Sporting CP reneged on a gentleman’s agreement that could have paved the way for his summer exit.
The 26-year-old, who smashed in 52 goals and 12 assists across all competitions this season, had reportedly agreed verbally with former Sporting director Hugo Viana that he could leave the club for a fair price if a top European side came knocking in 2025.
However, according to Fabrizio Romano, Sporting’s new leadership is refusing to honour that understanding. Instead, they are demanding a fee of €80–85 million, significantly higher than what had been previously implied to the player’s camp.
“There was a verbal agreement between Gyökeres’ agent and former Sporting director Hugo Viana. Now things have changed… Sporting want a much bigger fee. The player is very unhappy,” Romano stated on YouTube.
Arsenal’s Longstanding Interest
Arsenal have had their eye on Viktor Gyokeres for months. With Gabriel Jesus struggling for form, Kai Havertz playing in a hybrid midfield-forward role, and Folarin Balogun long sold, the need for a clinical, physical, and versatile striker has become increasingly apparent.
Sporting director Andrea Berta, who arrived earlier this year, is said to be actively scouting striker profiles that suit Mikel Arteta’s system, and Viktor Gyokeres ticks many of the boxes. Strong in duels, excellent at holding up the ball, and lethal inside the box, he could be the ideal addition to elevate Arsenal’s title and Champions League ambitions.
According to reports from Portugal and the UK, Arsenal had made preliminary contact with Sporting months ago, signaling their intent to challenge clubs like Chelsea and AC Milan, who have also shown interest in the Swedish striker.
Arsenal’s Striker Shortlist
While Gyokeres remains a priority option, Arsenal are not putting all their eggs in one basket. Other names being considered include:
- Benjamin Šeško (RB Leipzig): Younger and reportedly available for €65m.
- Alexander Isak (Newcastle): Proven Premier League quality, but Newcastle’s UCL qualification makes a deal difficult.
- Julian Alvarez (Atletico Madrid): Reports claim Arsenal are “bidding the hardest” to bring him back to the Premier League.
Still, Gyökeres’ consistency, durability, and explosiveness make him one of the most compelling options for Arsenal — especially given his availability and his potential desire to push for a move if Sporting dig in.
Arteta’s Vision
Mikel Arteta is believed to want a striker who can not only finish chances but also link play, press from the front, and occupy multiple roles in a fluid attacking system. Gyokeres has shown this flexibility under Rúben Amorim, frequently drifting wide or dropping deep to support midfielders.
With the likes of Bukayo Saka, Martin Ødegaard, Leandro Trossard, and Gabriel Martinelli around him, Gyökeres could thrive in Arsenal’s high-tempo attack.
Key Stats – Viktor Gyokeres (2024/25)
Games played 49
Goals 52
Assists 12
Shot conversion rate 28%
Big chances created 22
Duels won per game 7.1
Age 26
Estimated market value €85 million
What’s Next?
Sporting are yet to receive a formal offer, but if Arsenal are to make a move, the coming weeks are crucial. With the Euros set to kick off and players’ values likely to inflate, Edu Gaspar and Andrea Berta may look to act fast.
Gyökeres’ unhappiness could add pressure behind the scenes — and if Arsenal offer him a starting role and Champions League football, the Swede may push for the Emirates switch himself.
