Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres is said to be pondering going on strike in order to force through a move to the Premier League this summer, with his agent holding talks with Arsenal's owners
13:12, 12 Jun 2025
Viktor Gyokeres
Viktor Gyokeres has reportedly decided on his next move(Image: Maciej Rogowski/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images)
The agent of Sporting CP goal ace Viktor Gyokeres is said to have made significant strides towards securing his client a coveted Premier League transfer.
The development may come as a blow to Manchester United supporters, as Gyokeres' agent, Hasan Cetinkaya, has reportedly engaged in discussions with Arsenal's owners. The situation at Sporting CP appears to have taken a drastic turn, with Gyokeres reportedly expressing discontent with his current club.
It is alleged that the Swedish striker believed a gentleman's agreement was in place allowing him to depart for approximately £59million this summer. However, following his impressive tally of 97 goals in 102 appearances for the Lions, Sporting are determined to secure a fee closer to his £85m release clause if he is to leave.
This has led to speculation that Gyokeres may resort to going on strike in order to facilitate his desired move this summer. According to CNN Portugal, Cetinkaya met with Arsenal's owners on Wednesday in an effort to accelerate negotiations. A delegation from the Gunners reportedly travelled to Lisbon last month to explore the possibility of signing him.
The latest development suggests that talks between the two parties are advanced. Although Arsenal's representatives have previously engaged with Sporting, it appears that matters are now becoming more formal, paving the way for a potential agreement.
It is suggested that Gyokeres has had his heart set on a switch to the Emirates "from the very beginning", in what would be a snub to Ruben Amorim, who managed him at Sporting before leaving for United.
Article continues below
Gyokeres' inner circle have been vocal about their desire for him to stay in Lisbon. His uncle, Chris, spoke out at the Portuguese Cup final, where Gyokeres was pivotal in his side lifting the trophy, beating Benfica after extra-time.
Viktor Gyokeres of Sporting CP looks dejected after the 2-1 loss during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD6 match between Club Brugge KV and Sporting Clube de Portugal
Gyokeres is set to deliver a snub to former Sporting boss Ruben Amorim(Image: Crystal Pix/MB Media/Getty Images)
He told Sport.TV: "Yes, very much. Yesterday at dinner, we decided that he has to stay."
Meanwhile, Gyokeres' partner, Ines Aguiar, also wants him to remain in Portugal. According to reports, she has "promised" to pull out all the stops to persuade him to stay for a third season, despite the growing interest in the former Coventry striker.
Gyokeres recently ruled out a return to his home nation, telling Swedish Vogue: "After living in a warm country, it would be difficult. In Sweden, people work hard during the week and only socialise on the weekends.
Ines Aguiar
Ines Aguiar reportedly wants her boyfriend to stay in Lisbon(Image: inesvarzeaaguiar/Instagram)
"Here there is more life during the week. They have dinners with friends, a glass of wine on Monday. I like that."
Gyokeres could be Arsenal's missing piece. This season, the Gunners saw another title challenge fall short amid injury issues and the lack of a genuinely world-class No. 9.
United need a forward of Gyokeres' quality even more, although they have already signed Matheus Cunha from Wolves this summer, while they remain in the hunt for Brentford's Bryan Mbeumo.
Article continues below
Don't miss a thing with football updates!
Want to be on the ball with all of the latest football news? Well then sign up for the brilliant Daily Star Football email newsletter!
From the latest transfer news to breaking stories, get it all in your email inbox.
How do you sign up?
It only takes a matter of seconds.
Simply click on this link, then provide your email address and that's it, job done. You'll receive an email with all of the top football stories.
You can also sign up for our sport email, Off the Ball, for all the latest darts, boxing, snooker, F1 stories and more, right here