The Gyökeres saga takes center stage as Arsenal and Manchester United race to strike a deal amid Sporting CP’s pricing shift.
Manchester United and Arsenal are locked in a summer scramble to secure the services of Viktor Gyökeres, Sporting CP’s breakout striker. The Gyökeres saga has gathered momentum after Sporting CP president Frederico Varandas confirmed the club may be open to negotiating below the forward’s €100 million release clause.
Viktor Gyökeres, 27, has become one of the most sought-after forwards in Europe following a prolific season in Portugal. Both Arsenal and Manchester United are circling, eager to bolster their attacking options. Arsenal reportedly had an initial bid rejected, while Manchester United are monitoring the situation closely.
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In a candid statement with Portugal outlet O jogo, Varandas revealed that while Sporting is under no pressure to sell, they are “sensitive to Viktor’s dreams” and are willing to be “reasonable” with the asking price. He emphasized that the club has moved beyond the era of needing to sell top talent to stay afloat.
“We will not demand the full amount of the clause; we will be reasonable regarding the amount requested for Viktor,” Varandas stated.
However, he was quick to shut down speculation of a bargain-bin deal, asserting that Gyökeres “will not leave for €60+10 million”, referencing recent high-profile transfers to justify Sporting’s valuation.
With both clubs vying for his signature, the ball is now in the court of Gyökeres’ representatives and the Premier League suitors. Arsenal may pivot to RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Šeško if negotiations stall, while United could swoop in if the Gunners hesitate.
The future of Viktor Gyökeres is still up in the air, but one thing is certain: Sporting CP is willing to make a deal, but not at a price that is less than their asking price.
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