Sporting CP Close to Signing Almería Striker Luis Suárez

Sporting CP are moving quickly to sign Luis Suárez from Almería. Talks between the clubs are moving fast as the Portuguese team hopes to finalize the deal this week.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Negotiations between Sporting CP and Almería for striker Luis Suárez are at an advanced stage. The clubs are working on the final details, and the transfer is expected to be completed soon. Suárez, who scored 31 goals and provided eight assists for Almería during the 2024-25 season, is being pursued as a direct replacement for Viktor Gyökeres, who is set to leave Sporting this summer or, if he stays, will not be a part of the team for the season. The Colombian striker’s impressive form in Spain’s second division has made him one of the most sought-after forwards in this transfer window. Although Almería initially set a price of €25 million, Sporting are confident of securing a deal for a lower fee.

WHY SPORTING ARE MOVING FAST

Sporting finished last season as Liga Portugal champions, as confirmed by multiple reports, and are determined to maintain their attacking strength, especially with Gyökeres’ departure looming. The Lisbon club is the only team that has formally approached Almería about Suárez, giving them an advantage over competition from Premier League clubs. Suárez himself likes the idea of joining Sporting CP, as the Portuguese champions will offer Champions League football next season—a major attraction for the 27-year-old forward.

WHAT COMES NEXT FOR SPORTING AND SUÁREZ

Sporting are preparing for their first match of the new season in the Supertaça Cândido de Oliveira, where they will face Benfica, the runner-ups in the Cup and Primeira Liga. Sporting have the advantage of Champions League football and will aim to integrate Suárez quickly if the deal is completed this week. Almería, who saw Suárez as their star last season, face the challenge of rebuilding after finishing sixth in the Segunda División. With Sporting aiming to stay ahead of Porto and Benfica, adding a striker with Suárez’s track record could be crucial as they defend their title domestically and compete in Europe.