Arsenal Target Gyokeres Breaks Silence on Transfer Speculation

Viktor Gyokeres transfer decision (Image: (Zed Jameson/PA Wire))

Arsenal Target Gyokeres Breaks Silence on Transfer Speculation

Festus Chuma 14:25 - 13.06.2025

Sporting striker Viktor Gyokeres addresses mounting speculation amid strong interest from Arsenal, breaking silence on ongoing transfer saga.

Sporting Lisbon's top scorer Viktor Gyokeres has broken his silence following the recent dramatic events surrounding his future.

Portuguese media reported that the Swedish striker was furious with club management after President Frederico Varandas allegedly reneged on a gentleman's agreement to sell him for €60 million, plus €10 million in add-ons.

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This figure is significantly lower than his €100 million release clause. Varandas subsequently released a statement denying any such promise, stating he would not be blackmailed and refusing to sell the star for such a low fee.

Sporting Stands Firm on Transfer Conduct

Reports then emerged suggesting Gyokeres threatened to go on strike and boycott pre-season training if his asking price wasn't lowered.

Arsenal, Manchester United, and Juventus have all expressed interest in the player. According to "A Bola," Arsenal submitted a bid yesterday, which was rejected.

Gyokeres addressed the speculation surrounding his future on social media: "A lot is being said right now, most of which is untrue. I will speak when the time is right."

Sporting CP president Frederico Varandas had taken a strong stance regarding the ongoing transfer speculation around striker Viktor Gyokeres, making it clear that the club will not be pressured or disrespected during negotiations.

Varandas, speaking to Portuguese media this week, said he felt compelled to address the situation after returning from a short break.

"I tried to take three days off, I came back yesterday. I saw so much information and counter-information that it is only fair to come and explain the process."

He explained that the matter dates back to the end of last season, when Sporting were crowned national champions.

Despite being active in the transfer market, no concrete offer came through for Gyokeres.

"It started last year, when the season ended and Sporting became national champions. During the transfer market we saw that he was going to stay because there was no offer."

Gyokeres at the Center of Manchester United Pursuit

Varandas also touched on the role of the player's representative, who initiated talks about updating contract clauses. He credited the club’s sporting director for managing agent relations professionally.

"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."

The Sporting president stressed that throughout the process, the club remains firm in its values, stating they will not accept "blackmail and insults" as part of any deal.