Arsenal Receive Fresh Transfer Update as Sporting President Breaks Silence

Arsenal have received a fresh update in their pursuit of Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres, with club president Frederico Varandas addressing recent speculation surrounding the player’s future.

The Swedish forward has been on Arsenal’s radar throughout the summer, alongside RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko, as the Gunners look to strengthen their attacking options.

Negotiations had reportedly progressed under the belief that a gentleman’s agreement existed, allowing Gyokeres to leave Sporting for a total package worth around £59.8 million (€70 million). However, Varandas has firmly denied the existence of such an agreement, stating that no informal pact was in place and the striker would not be allowed to depart for that amount.

This development appears to have cooled Arsenal’s interest, at least temporarily, with the North London club now weighing alternative options as they navigate a busy summer transfer window.

The uncertainty has been further fuelled by Gyokeres himself, who took to social media to dismiss much of the speculation as “false.” Reports also suggest the 26-year-old has privately expressed a desire to leave the club and does not wish to play for Sporting again.

The situation remains fluid, but Sporting’s firm stance on the striker’s value could force Arsenal to either meet a higher asking price or shift their focus elsewhere. With Mikel Arteta keen to bring in a reliable No.9, the Gyokeres saga may still have more twists before the window closes.