Viktor Gyökeres chose ambition over money by joining Arsenal, rejecting Manchester United’s higher offer and Saudi riches.
The summer window unfolded with quiet tension. Few stories caught attention like Viktor Gyökeres’ transfer saga. Sporting CP believed they held the advantage when Manchester United came forward with a higher bid that topped Arsenal’s offer. Yet, as the days went on, the Swedish striker changed direction unexpectedly. Sporting wanted to sell for the bigger fee. But Gyökeres decided to join North London instead.
The Gunners signed Viktor Gyokeres in the summer
The assistant of his agent spoke on the Studio Allsvenskan podcast, as reported by MaisFutebol. He explained how the Portuguese club tried to close a deal with Manchester United without informing the player’s camp. He said the club’s eagerness to grab more money almost ruined the striker’s future. He also mentioned an incredible offer from Saudi Arabia that promised more than four hundred million net per season. Yet, the player ignored that deal. He refused to chase such wealth.
Viktor Gyökeres chose ambition over money by joining Arsenal, rejecting Manchester United’s higher offer and Saudi riches.
Speaking to the Studio Allsvenskan podcast, Chalkias revealed via MaisFutebol: “Saudi Arabia? Those were sickening figures. They were offering Viktor over 400 million net per season, over a million per day. It’s better if he’s the one to talk about it one day, especially since we didn’t pressure him to accept any offer. At the end of the day, money comes and money goes.
“This move to Arsenal also gave us very good marketing. One of Sporting’s problems is that they tried to negotiate a transfer to Manchester United behind our backs. The deal was done because Manchester United offered a higher transfer fee.”
In the end, Arsenal secured their man. Manchester United brought in Benjamin Sesko to fill their striking gap. Gyökeres’ move strengthened Mikel Arteta’s squad. It showed his choice of ambition over money. Meanwhile, Sporting’s behind-the-scenes actions cast a shadow over what could have been a simple transfer story.
Why Gyökeres fits Arsenal better?
Viktor Gyökeres fits Arsenal’s football under Mikel Arteta better than he fits Manchester United’s setup. His strength, sharp movement, and clean finishing suit a system that thrives on quick passing and strong positional play. Arsenal often face teams that defend deep. He creates chances that help them break tight defences.
Ruben Amorim sets up Manchester United in a 3-4-2-1 system. His team relies on slow build-up play and dual playmakers behind the striker. Gyökeres’ movement opens space for those creators. But the slower rhythm limits his usual direct runs into open areas.
Arsenal seem the better fit for him. The Gunners’ fluid style highlights his strength, creativity, and work rate. If he adapts quickly, Gyökeres can become the player who turns Arsenal’s sharp attacks into a real title challenge this season.