Viktor Gyokeres Transfer: Arsenal and Man Utd Rival Rule Deal Out in Huge Twist

Viktor Gyokeres Transfer: Arsenal and Man Utd Rival Rule Deal Out in Huge Twist

 

Arsenal and Manchester United have been handed a boost in the pursuit of Viktor Gyokeres after one of their major rivals reportedly pulled out of the race to sign the prolific striker this summer. The Sporting Lisbon star has been the subject of intense transfer speculation following a phenomenal debut season in Portugal, and a major twist has now opened the door for a potential Premier League move.

 

Gyokeres, 26, enjoyed a sensational 2023/24 campaign after joining Sporting from Coventry City, scoring 43 goals and providing 15 assists in all competitions. His powerful presence, clinical finishing, and tireless work rate have seen him emerge as one of Europe’s most sought-after forwards, with a host of top clubs monitoring his situation closely.

 

Arsenal and Manchester United are among those keen to bolster their attacking options, and both clubs see Gyokeres as a player who could make an immediate impact in the Premier League. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is eager to add a more physical and prolific striker to his frontline to challenge for the Premier League title next season. Meanwhile, Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag – assuming he remains at the helm – is believed to be searching for a proven goal-scorer to support young talent Rasmus Højlund.

 

However, it has now emerged that Chelsea — previously considered a strong contender for Gyokeres — have dropped their interest. According to reports from Portugal and England, the Stamford Bridge hierarchy have decided to pursue other options in the forward department, partly due to financial considerations and partly due to concerns about Gyokeres’ £85 million release clause.

 

Chelsea’s withdrawal represents a significant twist in the race, as the Blues had been one of the few clubs seen as capable of meeting Sporting’s demands. Sporting president Frederico Varandas has made it clear that the club will not entertain offers below the release clause, and Gyokeres himself has shown no signs of forcing a move, further complicating any negotiations.

 

For Arsenal and United, Chelsea’s exit from the chase simplifies matters slightly, though the financial hurdle remains substantial. Both clubs are said to be exploring creative ways to structure a potential deal, including staggered payments or the inclusion of player exchanges. Nonetheless, any formal approach is expected to test their willingness to match Sporting’s valuation.

 

Sporting, on the other hand, are under no pressure to sell. Having secured Champions League football and with Gyokeres under contract until 2028, they remain in a strong negotiating position. The Portuguese club would prefer to keep their star man for at least one more season, particularly given the significant role he played in their recent Primeira Liga title triumph.

 

While Chelsea’s withdrawal is a major development, the road to signing Gyokeres remains far from straightforward. Arsenal and Manchester United may now face each other head-to-head in the transfer market for a striker capable of transforming their attacking fortunes — and with the Swedish international’s stock rising, time could be of the essence.

 

With Euro 2024 on the horizon and the potential for Gyokeres to further impress on the international stage, any delay could only drive his value higher. For now, the race continues, but with one less competitor in the field.

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