Red Devils Move Into Pole Position for Gyokeres Signing Amid Arsenal Struggles
Manchester United have surged ahead in the pursuit of Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres, with reports indicating the club has tabled a slightly higher offer than Arsenal. The dramatic twist comes just as Arsenal appeared to be closing in on the Swedish international, but now United, backed by INEOS, are poised to hijack the deal in what’s become a transfer saga full of late drama and unexpected turns.
Arsenal’s Deal Stalls Over Bonus Structure
Last week, Arsenal reportedly reached a verbal agreement with Sporting CP for Gyokeres, with terms including a €63.5 million upfront payment and an additional €10 million in performance-based add-ons. The striker’s agent even waived his fee to help push the deal through.
However, complications quickly emerged. Despite the agreement in principle, the two clubs hit a roadblock regarding how the add-ons would be structured. Arsenal offered €3 million in basic bonuses, while Sporting demanded the full €10 million in more achievable incentives. According to Fabrizio Romano, discussions were ongoing in London, but Sporting remained firm on their terms.
Portuguese outlet A Bola further fueled uncertainty, reporting that the deal was at “serious risk of falling through,” with Arsenal reluctant to meet Sporting’s expectations. The emotional toll of the uncertainty reportedly even affected Gyokeres’ family, with his father said to be “brought to tears” by the stalling negotiations.
INEOS-Backed United Step In With Improved Offer
Sensing an opening, Manchester United reignited their interest. The Red Devils, who have long monitored Gyokeres, reportedly re-entered discussions with Sporting following the breakdown in Arsenal’s progress.
According to A Bola, United’s new bid, funded by Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS group, has surpassed Arsenal’s offer—though marginally—with the proposal still falling within the €70–80 million range. Crucially, United appear to be more flexible in meeting Sporting’s desired bonus conditions, giving them an edge in talks.
SIC and Swedish publication Maisfutebol both report that United are now “very close” to reaching an agreement with Sporting. Talks have “resumed at full speed,” positioning the Premier League giants as the “most advanced club” in the Gyokeres transfer race.
Gyokeres Torn Amid Champions League Ambitions
Despite Manchester United’s strong push, one crucial factor could still sway the final decision: Gyokeres’ personal ambitions. The 26-year-old has expressed a strong desire to play in the Champions League and compete for silverware—factors that initially made Arsenal his preferred destination.
With Arsenal already qualified for next season’s Champions League and United set to play in the Europa League, the striker faces a tough decision: follow his sporting dreams or accept a slightly higher offer and a different project at Old Trafford.
As things stand, the situation remains fluid. While Manchester United have the financial upper hand, Arsenal haven’t backed out entirely. The next few days could be decisive in determining where one of Europe’s most sought-after strikers will land this summer.
