Viktor Gyokeres, the highly sought-after striker targeted by Arsenal and Manchester United, has dropped a hint that he may reject the advances of his numerous suitors and opt to remain at Sporting Lisbon instead.
Former Coventry City striker Gyokeres, 27, has been strongly linked with a transfer to England, having previously played for Brighton and the Sky Blues.
However, the in-demand Swedish forward, who has netted an impressive 54 goals in 52 games this season, has yet to make a decision on departing the Portuguese capital, let alone his next destination. According to Mirror Football, Sporting would be open to selling Gyokeres for £60million, with both Arsenal and United seeking to sign a striker in the upcoming summer transfer window.
This is despite his release clause being set at £84m, following interest from across Europe after he helped Sporting secure a double in 2025. Nevertheless, the 27 year old has grown fond of life in Lisbon, where he feels a strong sense of belonging.
"In Swedish culture, people work hard during the week and if they want to do something, they do it on the weekend," Gyokeres revealed in an interview with Vogue Scandinavia via Portuguese outlet A Bola.
"Here, people also make the most of the weekdays. They come over with friends on Monday or any other day of the week, have dinner and a glass of wine.", reports the Mirror.
"In Sweden, that's rare. That's the big difference. Lisbon is one of the best cities in Europe... I feel at home."
Chris was ecstatic after Sporting Lisbon's victory over Benfica for the Taca de Portugal, commenting: "I'm super happy, this is amazing. We were here last year, it's the same spirit, the same people, the same atmosphere. Absolutely fantastic! Beyond words!".
When queried about their family's bond with Lisbon, Chris remarked: "Yes, very much... yesterday at dinner we decided that he has to stay."
As for the future of the Swedish forward in Lisbon, he said: "Yes, we think so."
Supporters are encouraged to share their thoughts on whether Viktor Gyokeres should remain with Sporting Lisbon in the comments section below.
Later, Gyokeres himself acknowledged his family's fondness for Portugal: "They really like Portugal; I think they want to be here and enjoy the city, the good weather, and all the atmosphere."
Sporting vice-president Francisco Salgado Zenha has recently confirmed there have been no bids for Gyokeres, following his withdrawal from international duty due to injury. Zenha stated to journalists: "He has three more years on his contract,".
Zenha informed the press that Sporting has yet to entertain any transfer offers for Gyokeres, underlining: "At the moment there are no offers, he has three more years on his contract. I think the answer has been given. [Sporting's transfer plans] won't be any different from last year. We want to keep the best players and retain talent."