Viktor Gyökeres Set to Depart Sporting CP for €65m Transfer Fee
Lisbon, Portugal – May 25, 2025
Viktor Gyökeres, the prolific Swedish striker, is reportedly set to play his final match for Sporting CP today in the Taça de Portugal final against rivals Benfica. According to multiple sources, including transfer expert Fabrizio Romano and various reports from outlets such as O Jogo and TEAMtalk, Gyökeres is poised to leave the Portuguese club this summer for a transfer package worth approximately €65 million (£54.6 million), a figure notably lower than his €100 million release clause. This development follows an agreement made months ago between Gyökeres and Sporting, allowing for his departure at a reduced fee.
Gyökeres, 26, has been a revelation since joining Sporting CP from Coventry City in 2023. His staggering tally of 96 goals in 101 appearances, including 53 goals and 13 assists in 51 games this season alone, has cemented his status as one of Europe’s most sought-after forwards. His performances have not only helped Sporting secure back-to-back Primeira Liga titles but also earned him the Portuguese top-flight Player of the Year award for two consecutive seasons, a feat not accomplished since Porto’s Hulk over a decade ago.
The €65m transfer package has sparked intense speculation about Gyökeres’ next destination, with several Premier League giants in the race. Arsenal have emerged as frontrunners, with reports suggesting they have struck a deal with Sporting and are preparing a “generous” contract to lure the striker to North London. The Gunners’ new sporting director, Andrea Berta, is said to be a strong advocate for the signing, viewing Gyökeres as the solution to their need for a clinical striker following injuries to players like Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz.
However, Arsenal face competition from Manchester United, where Gyökeres’ former Sporting coach, Ruben Amorim, is keen to reunite with the Swede. United’s interest has reportedly intensified, with plans to “accelerate” their pursuit after the Europa League final, though their lack of Champions League qualification could hinder their chances. Other clubs, including Chelsea and Manchester City, have also been linked, but Arsenal’s upward trajectory and Champions League status make them a more attractive destination.
Despite the transfer buzz, Gyökeres has remained coy about his future. When asked about his plans, he told teammates, “I’m not a fortune teller,” and recently expressed a preference for staying in Lisbon over a move to London, according to The Mirror. His uncle, however, caused a stir by claiming the family had decided Gyökeres should stay at Sporting, though this contradicts the widely reported agreement for his departure.
Posts on X have further fueled speculation, with users like @pedrogva6 and @DeanJamesAFC claiming Arsenal and Sporting have already reached agreements, with fees ranging from €65m to €80m. While these posts reflect fan excitement, they remain unverified and should be treated with caution.
As Gyökeres prepares for his potential farewell against Benfica, Sporting fans hope he can sign off with a domestic double, adding the Taça de Portugal to their recent league triumph. Meanwhile, Europe’s elite clubs are poised for a heated transfer battle, with the next week likely to bring clarity on where the Swedish star will continue his remarkable career.
Note: Transfer rumors and figures are based on reports from credible sources but remain subject to confirmation. For the latest updates, follow trusted outlets or check official announcements from the clubs involved.
