The Viktor Gyökeres Transfer Saga: Fact vs Fiction
The football world is ablaze with rumours surrounding Viktor Gyökeres, the Swedish striker who has taken the Primeira Liga by storm. With 97 goals in 102 appearances for Sporting Lisbon since his €20 million move from Coventry in summer 2023, Gyökeres has become one of Europe’s most sought-after forwards. But as the transfer window heats up, separating fact from fiction is becoming increasingly difficult.
The Gentleman’s Agreement: Truth or Myth?
Reports suggest that Gyökeres and Sporting had a ‘gentleman’s agreement’ allowing him to leave this summer for €70 million. However, Sporting President Frederico Varandas has emphatically denied this claim. “Threats, blackmail, and insults don’t work with me,” Varandas declared. “I never promised him that he could leave for €60 million plus €10 million in add-ons.”
Gyökeres’ agent, Hasan Çetinkaya, reportedly claims to have written evidence of this agreement. Yet, Portuguese outlet Record has dismissed this, stating that no such documentation exists. The striker himself took to Instagram to address the speculation: “There is a lot of talk at the moment, most of it false. I will speak when the time is right.”
Arsenal and Manchester United: Who’s in the Lead?
Both Arsenal and Manchester United have been linked with Gyökeres, but the race is far from straightforward. Manchester United are said to be preparing a bid worth €60 million plus €10 million in add-ons, a figure Varandas has already deemed insufficient. Meanwhile, Arsenal’s interest appears lukewarm, with reports suggesting RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Šeško is their priority target.
Despite this, Record claims that Gyökeres’ agents have officially informed Sporting that Old Trafford is no longer an option. Instead, the Emirates Stadium is reportedly the striker’s ‘dream destination.’ However, with Arsenal yet to meet Sporting’s valuation, the door remains only slightly ajar.
The €100 Million Clause: A Potential Sticking Point
Gyökeres’ contract includes a €100 million release clause, which Sporting are under no obligation to lower. To complicate matters, Çetinkaya has a ‘sales mandate’ entitling him to 10% of any rejected bid exceeding €60 million. This clause could push Sporting to demand the full €100 million if negotiations drag on.
Varandas has made it clear that while he won’t demand the full release clause, Sporting will not settle for less than what they believe Gyökeres is worth. “I don’t know if it will be €40, €60, or €80 million,” he said. “But I can guarantee that I will not demand €100 million.”
What’s Next for Gyökeres?
As the transfer saga unfolds, one thing is certain: Gyökeres won’t come cheap. With Arsenal and Manchester United vying for his signature, and Sporting determined to hold their ground, this story is far from over. Stay tuned for the latest updates on this high-stakes chase.
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