Stunning Twist in Viktor Gyokeres Transfer Saga! Man Utd Set to Hijack Arsenal Deal in €70m Move for Prolific Sporting Striker

Manchester United ‘Very Close’ to Agreement as Gyokeres Pushes for Premier League Move

Just when Arsenal fans thought Viktor Gyokeres might finally be headed to north London, a stunning twist in the transfer saga has brought a familiar red shadow looming over the deal. Manchester United have reportedly jumped into the fray and are now “very close” to reaching a €70 million agreement with Sporting CP for the Swedish striker—potentially hijacking a move that Arsenal had been working on for weeks.

It’s the kind of drama that only the summer transfer window can deliver.

The Gyokeres Chase: How We Got Here

Viktor Gyokeres Manchester United

For months, Arsenal have been in talks with Sporting CP, trying to hammer out a deal for Gyokeres, whose stock has skyrocketed following a sensational season in Portugal. The 26-year-old forward netted 43 goals in all competitions last season, making him one of the most prolific strikers in Europe.

Mikel Arteta’s side were in desperate need of a natural No. 9—someone to convert their constant attacking dominance into cold, hard goals. And Gyokeres, with his blend of physicality, pace, and ruthless finishing, seemed to tick all the boxes.

Arsenal reportedly offered €63.5 million upfront, with the rest of the €70 million valuation to be made up through add-ons. But Sporting stood firm: no negotiations unless the full clause is met.

And just like that, the door was left slightly ajar.

United Swoop In

Enter Manchester United.

According to SIC, the Red Devils have taken advantage of the stalemate between Arsenal and Sporting. United are now said to be willing to meet the full €70 million price tag—a bold statement from a club looking to rebuild its identity under Erik ten Hag.

United’s interest in a striker is no secret. While Rasmus Højlund showed flashes of potential in his debut season, the club has been eyeing a proven finisher to relieve pressure and provide competition. Gyokeres may not have Premier League experience yet, but his sheer productivity makes him a tantalizing option.

What makes this development even more dramatic is that Gyokeres himself appears to be forcing the move. The Swedish international has not reported for pre-season training with Sporting, and sources close to the club suggest his mind is already in England.

Family Stress, Emotional Toll

The saga has even spilled over into personal territory. Portuguese outlet Maisfutebol revealed that Gyokeres’ father was brought to tears over the uncertainty of the transfer, believing that delays and complications might cause the move to collapse altogether.

It’s a rare glimpse into the emotional toll these drawn-out negotiations can take—not just on players, but their families. For Gyokeres, who sees this as a once-in-a-lifetime shot at Premier League stardom, the stakes couldn’t be higher.

Arsenal’s Next Move: Panic or Patience?

From Arsenal’s perspective, this would be a huge blow.

The Gunners have made no secret of their intent to bring in a striker this summer. With Gabriel Jesus struggling for consistency and fitness, and Kai Havertz more effective in a deeper or creative role, the lack of a pure goal scorer has been a glaring issue.

Losing Gyokeres to a direct rival, especially after leading the race for so long, would be a bitter pill to swallow. But the question now is: will Arsenal react with a renewed offer, or pivot to other targets like Benjamin Sesko, Victor Osimhen, or even Ivan Toney?

They still remain in the running—some reports suggest Emirates Stadium is still Gyokeres’ preferred destination. But time is ticking, and United seem to be acting while Arsenal hesitate.

United’s Transfer Intentions Clear

For Manchester United, securing a deal for Gyokeres would be a significant moment.

The club has endured years of misfiring signings, bloated wage bills, and underperformance. But under the new ownership structure led by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, there’s a clear shift toward smarter, bolder investments—and Gyokeres would fit that mould.

Still just 26, he’s entering his prime, and his goalscoring record in Portugal suggests he’s ready for a bigger stage. United fans will be hoping he’s not another flash-in-the-pan signing but rather a long-term solution up front.

Sporting CP Holding Firm

Credit must go to Sporting, too. In an era where many clubs buckle under Premier League financial muscle, they’ve remained firm. Sporting have consistently reiterated their €70 million valuation, and if United pay that in full, it will mark a record sale for the club.

It’s also a warning to other top Portuguese sides that talent exports don’t always have to be undervalued. Sporting knew what they had in Gyokeres—and they stood their ground.

What Happens Next?

Viktor Gyokeres Sporting 2025

As of now, the ball appears to be in United’s court. Negotiations are reportedly at an advanced stage, and a formal agreement could arrive any moment. But Arsenal are unlikely to go down without a fight. They’ve tracked Gyokeres all summer—and their need is arguably greater than United’s.

So, do they respond with a revised offer? Do they match the full €70 million? Or do they walk away and look elsewhere?

It’s a delicate game of poker now, and one that could shape the coming season for both clubs.

Final Thoughts: A Tale of Two Rivals

In a transfer saga filled with emotion, tactics, and big money, Viktor Gyokeres has become the unlikely centrepiece of a dramatic battle between Arsenal and Manchester United—two of the Premier League’s biggest and most storied clubs.

Where he ends up could swing momentum in the title race, Champions League ambitions, or even just bragging rights between two sets of passionate fans.

As always in football, the truth will come out soon enough. But one thing is certain: this isn’t just a transfer. It’s a statement.