Sporting Lisbon Finds Replacement for Viktor Gyökeres

Sporting Lisbon Finds Replacement for Viktor Gyökeres

Festus Chuma 14:38 - 29.07.2025

The 27-year-old striker arrives from Spanish side Almeria for approximately €25 million and is expected to fill the void left by Viktor Gyökeres's move to Arsenal.

Sporting CP have secured a new forward by signing Colombia's Luis Suarez from Almeria for 25 million euros marking a significant step to fill the void left by Viktor Gyökeres.

The Portuguese champions acted swiftly after completing Gyökeres’ long-anticipated move to Arsenal last week, with the Gunners paying a total package of €72.6 million for the Swedish striker.

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Gyökeres, signed by Sporting for €20 million two years ago from Coventry City, lit up the Primeira Liga with 39 goals in 33 appearances last season, following a 29-goal campaign the year before.

His 68 league goals over the past two seasons outstripped even the top scorers from Europe’s elite five leagues, making him a valuable asset both on the pitch and in the transfer market.

Speaking about Suarez’s arrival, a club insider noted, “This is a striker with experience, hunger, and a proven nose for goal. We believe he can make a real impact.”

The Colombian international, who has five senior caps, arrives in Lisbon on a five-year contract, with Sporting inserting an €80 million release clause into his deal.

Big Boots to Fill

In order to replace Gyökeres, Sporting turned to Suarez, who netted 27 times for Almeria in Spain’s Segunda Division last season.

These goals came from an expected goals (xG) tally of 25.83, showcasing his consistency and finishing prowess. He also converted 40% of his big chances, scoring 18 out of 45 clear-cut opportunities — a statistic that impressed Sporting’s scouting team.

Suarez’s signing is a strategic move by Sporting as they seek to maintain their domestic dominance and make a deeper run in European competitions.

“We’ve tracked Suarez for some time,” a club official added. “His numbers speak for themselves, and he’s only 26 — there’s a lot more to come.”

A Journeyman Finds His Stage

Suarez’s career has taken him across Europe, with stints at Watford, Granada, and Marseille.

Despite being at Watford from 2017 to 2021, he failed to make an appearance in either the Premier League or Championship, instead spending time out on loan.

In the 2022–2023 season, he joined Ligue 1 side Marseille, where he scored three goals in seven appearances.

His standout season at Almeria has now put him in the spotlight.

Although Almeria fell short in their La Liga promotion hopes, losing in the playoffs to Real Oviedo, Suarez’s individual brilliance didn’t go unnoticed. The striker's sale was ultimately sanctioned by Almeria following their failed promotion bid.

Sporting supporters will be hoping Suarez can replicate Gyökeres’ impact and build on the club’s recent momentum.

The €25 million investment shows Sporting’s intent to remain at the top, while the €80 million release clause signals how highly they value their new No. 9.