Viktor Gyökeres Rejected Man United for Arsenal Despite Higher Offer, Agent Reveals

Viktor Gyökeres chose Arsenal over Manchester United even with a bigger offer, as his agent’s assistant reveals the reason behind his move.

Viktor Gyökeres turned down a higher transfer offer from Manchester United to join Arsenal, his agent’s assistant has confirmed. The Swedish striker, who joined the Gunners in a £63 million move from Sporting CP, was reportedly Manchester United’s top target before choosing Mikel Arteta’s project instead.

Jonathan Chalkias, assistant to Gyökeres’ agent Hasan Cetinkaya, revealed on the Studio Allsvenskan podcast that Sporting CP had already accepted a larger bid from Manchester United “behind our backs.” Despite the higher offer, Gyökeres refused to engage with United, making it clear that Arsenal was his only destination.

“They had agreed because United paid a much higher transfer fee,” Chalkias explained. “But every time they called, it was ‘no, no, no’—he wanted Arsenal.”

This revelation sheds light on Arsenal’s growing pulling power in the transfer market, especially when competing against historic rivals like United.

Temptations Turned Down

Gyökeres also rejected a lucrative move to the Saudi Pro League, which reportedly offered him over €400 million per year. Chalkias stated that the forward was never driven by money:

“Money comes and money goes. Making this move to Arsenal gives us good marketing and football exposure, too.”

The decision underlines Gyökeres’ ambition to compete at the highest level rather than chase financial gain.

The key factor behind Gyökeres’ decision was his conversation with Mikel Arteta. The Arsenal boss emphasized his long-term vision for the club and how the Swedish striker would fit into his system.

“Getting to do it on the biggest stage, living in London, playing for Arsenal—it doesn’t get much bigger,” Chalkias said.

Arteta’s direct approach and the club’s title ambitions ultimately convinced Gyökeres to join Arsenal, making him their first major striker signing in two years.

Strong Start at the Emirates

Since arriving, Gyökeres has made 10 appearances and scored three goals, quickly establishing himself as a reliable starter. Chalkias praised his progress, saying:

“He’s doing well—they’ve faced City, United away, Newcastle away, and Liverpool away. Not bad at all.”

Manchester United’s failed pursuit of Gyökeres highlights their continued difficulties in attracting top talent, even with bigger financial offers. Despite offering more money, the Red Devils couldn’t match Arsenal’s appeal in terms of ambition, stability, and vision.

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