Viktor Gyökeres Refuses to Return to Sporting, Pushes for Arsenal Move

Viktor Gyökeres has made it clear he does not want to play for Sporting CP anymore and insists on joining Arsenal. The forward has informed his current club of his intentions, adding pressure to ongoing transfer talks between Sporting and the Premier League side.

A previous report confirmed that Gyökeres is focused on joining Arsenal and is refusing to return to Sporting CP for training.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Gyökeres has refused to attend Sporting CP training sessions. He is trying to force a move to Arsenal. The Swedish striker is one of Europe’s top goal-scorers. He scored 54 goals in 52 games for Sporting last season. He has agreed to a five-year contract with Arsenal. Negotiations between the clubs continue. Sporting wants around £69 million with add-ons. Arsenal wants to pay less in guaranteed fees. Sporting allowed Gyökeres to delay his return for pre-season. The forward is clear: he wants Arsenal and no other team.

A previous report indicated that Arsenal offered €60 million with €10 million in add-ons for Viktor Gyökeres.

It was also noted that Sporting CP demands more than €60 million for Gyökeres.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Arsenal finished second in the Premier League last season. They want to improve their attack for a title challenge. Gyökeres would be their main striker. He was chosen over other targets for his impressive form in Portugal. Arsenal has agreed personal terms with another target, Noni Madueke. They are also working on deals for Eberechi Eze and others. Sporting won the Primeira Liga last season. They risk losing their star forward with the new season coming. Both clubs feel pressure to reach an agreement fast. Arsenal does not want to pay too much. Sporting wants the best deal for their top player.

Arsenal are preparing to talk directly with Chelsea about signing Noni Madueke.

A previous report confirmed that Sporting CP won the Primeira Liga title in the 2024-25 season.

WHAT’S NEXT?

Talks between Arsenal and Sporting will continue. Both sides want to agree on the final transfer fee. Arsenal’s next match will be the Premier League opener against Manchester United and they will want to start with the right foot. Arsenal is focused on closing the points gap from last season to eventual champions Liverpool. They want to finish their summer signings before the league starts. Sporting will need to find a replacement for Gyökeres if he leaves. They want to defend their Portuguese league title in the new season.

Sporting CP wants Luis Javier Suárez to replace Viktor Gyökeres.