Viktor Gyokeres statement, new Arsenal transfer offer and clear Sporting stance

Sporting CP forward Viktor Gyokeres has been linked with a blockbuster move to Arsenal this summer. The 27-year-old has emerged as one of the most sought-after attackers in world football after scoring 54 goals in 52 matches for the Portuguese side during the 2024/25 season.

Andrea Berta has placed him near the top of Arsenal’s summer shopping list as they look to strengthen their forward line, while RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko is among the others they have targeted.

Mikel Arteta’s side may have scored the third-most goals in the Premier League last season (69), but failed to have a single player register double figures in the top flight. Arsenal’s lack of firepower became a problem as the season progressed and the Gunners have decided to make signing a new No.9 a priority.

Gyokeres appears to be the leading contender, alongside Sesko, to become Arsenal’s new first-choice striker. With this in mind, football.london has taken a look at the latest transfer news surrounding Gyokeres.

New Arsenal offer

On Thursday, it was reported that Arsenal are preparing a new move for Viktor Gyokeres. The Portuguese media outlet Maies Futebol reported that Arsenal ‘remain determined’ and are readying an offer worth more than the £59m gentleman’s agreement between the player and his club.

Claims emerged earlier this season that the Swede had the gentleman’s agreement in place to leave Sporting for less than his £85m release clause, after he rejected transfer interest in 2024.

However, an angry Sporting president Frederico Varandas revealed on Wednesday there is no agreement for Gyokeres to exit the club for £59m in the summer transfer window.

“I can guarantee that Viktor Gyokeres will not leave for 60m Euros plus 10m Euros because I never promised that,” Varandas said. “To this day Sporting has not had an offer for Gyokeres – neither today nor last season.”

First Gunners ‘offer’

Arsenal made a formal offer to sign Viktor Gyokeres from Sporting CP, according to Maisfutebol. The Gunners’ bid was thought to be £51m with bonuses taking it higher.

While Arsenal have lodged a proposal for Gyokeres, it’s reported that the amount is below what Sporting see as the ideal number and the Portuguese side are wanting a fee in the region of £68m.

Manchester United, meanwhile, are prepared to make an offer of £51m plus £8.5m in add-ons and compete alongside Arsenal for Gyokeres. However, that is not expected to be enough for Sporting.

Gyokeres statement

On Thursday, Gyokeres decided to post on social media to provide an update on future

In an Instagram story, Gyokeres uploaded a picture of a black screen alongside the caption: “There’s a lot of talk at the moment, most of it is false. I will speak when the time is right.”

Club preference

Gyokeres would prioritise a move to Arsenal if he has the pick of his clubs, according to The Mirror. The Gunners are among those targeting the Sporting CP forward this summer.

But Sporting believe that Gyokeres prefers to make the switch to Emirates Stadium, despite reported interest from Manchester United, Liverpool, Juventus, Barcelona and Chelsea.

Arsenal and Manchester United are reported to be leading the race but the Gunners can offer Champions League football – something that could prove to be a major factor.