Arsenal’s hopes of landing **Viktor Gyökeres** this summer have encountered a serious hurdle, as **Sporting CP president Frederico Varandas** has publicly warned that the striker **will not be sold for €60 million plus €10 million in add-ons** — a figure that had reportedly been seen as a potential opening bid.
The North London club have been actively pursuing the Swedish striker, who has emerged as one of their **top targets** for the No. 9 position. But Sporting’s latest stance signals their **unwillingness to compromise** on what they believe is a fair valuation for one of Europe’s most in-form forwards.
### Varandas: “He Just Won’t Leave for That Price”
Speaking candidly about the situation, Varandas said:
> “I’m not going to say what the price is, the player knows what it is. I can tell you that Viktor won’t leave for €60m plus €10m — he won’t, he just won’t.”
This declaration has poured cold water on Arsenal’s belief that a structured offer close to **€70 million total** could be enough to lure the 26-year-old away from Lisbon. Varandas’ comments appear to be a **message to potential suitors**: pay the full amount or don’t bother negotiating.
### A Complex Situation for Arsenal
Arsenal, led by sporting director Andrea Berta and manager Mikel Arteta, had been keeping options open between **Gyökeres and Benjamin Šeško**, with both players held in high regard by the club’s recruitment team. Gyökeres was seen as the more immediate and physical option, offering proven output and readiness for Premier League football.
However, this latest development has cast **serious doubt** over whether Arsenal will continue pushing for the Sporting star — especially when they are also in deep discussions with RB Leipzig over a slightly more manageable deal for Šeško, who is younger and regarded as having a higher ceiling.
### Sporting Holding Firm
Gyökeres had a **sensational 2024/25 season**, scoring and assisting at will across the Portuguese league and in European competitions. Sporting are fully aware of the player’s importance and potential market value — especially after his performances sparked interest not only from Arsenal, but also clubs like Manchester United and PSG.
Sporting’s refusal to budge from their valuation — which is believed to be closer to **€100 million**, in line with his release clause — makes it clear that any club wanting Gyökeres will need to meet a **premium price**.
### What This Means for Arsenal
With Varandas drawing a clear line in the sand, Arsenal now face a choice: meet Sporting’s valuation or move on. Given the club’s historical reluctance to overspend, especially with other targets in play, **a shift in focus toward Šeško may now become more likely**.
One thing is clear: Arsenal will sign a striker this summer — but after this latest update, it’s looking less likely that Gyökeres will be that man unless Sporting’s stance softens or Arsenal make a dramatic financial decision.
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