Sporting Confirm Signing of Luis Javier Suárez as Gyökeres Replacement

Sporting CP have finalized the signing of Colombian striker Luis Javier Suárez from Almería, bringing in a proven goalscorer to replace Viktor Gyökeres ahead of the new season. As reported earlier, Sporting CP is in advanced negotiations to secure Suárez’s services.

WHAT HAPPENED?

All official documents have been completed between Sporting and Almería for Suárez’s transfer. The 27-year-old will join Sporting on a five-year deal after a standout season at Almería, where he scored 31 goals and delivered 8 assists in 43 matches. The fee is reported to be €20 million plus €5 million in potential bonuses, with a 10% sell-on clause for Almería. Suárez arrives as a direct replacement for Gyökeres, who is on the verge of joining Arsenal after helping Sporting win the Primeira Liga last season.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Sporting secured the Portuguese league title for the second time in four years, finishing 2024/25 ahead of Benfica by clinching the title in the last matchday. Gyökeres was key to their success, scoring 27 league goals. With his departure, Sporting urgently needed a reliable striker. Suárez fits this profile perfectly, having topped the scoring charts in Spain’s Segunda División. His arrival is also significant ahead of Sporting’s Champions League campaign, where the club hopes to progress further than last season’s Round of 16 exit.

WHAT NEXT?

Suárez is expected to join Sporting’s squad immediately, with his debut likely in the Portuguese Supercup against Benfica next week. Sporting begin their league season soon after, opening against Casa Pia. Almería, meanwhile, are preparing for a challenging campaign in Spain’s second tier after failing to win promotion. All eyes will be on Suárez to see if he can adapt quickly and help Sporting defend their title while also performing on the European stage.