Real Madrid have unexpectedly been offered the chance to sign Viktor Gyokeres, the high-scoring Swedish striker from Sporting Lisbon, in what has become one of the most complex transfer stories of the summer. The 27-year-old forward, who has scored nearly 100 goals over the last two seasons, is now attracting attention beyond just the Premier League.
Manchester United and Arsenal are leading the charge for the striker’s signature. Arsenal are seen as front-runners but are reportedly growing increasingly irritated by the drawn-out negotiations. Manchester United, meanwhile, maintain interest, especially due to Gyokeres’ past success under Sporting manager Ruben Amorim.
Despite the player’s £84 million release clause, it’s understood that a deal could be struck closer to £70 million. Juventus have also made contact recently, adding further complication to the race.
In a surprise development, Real Madrid were offered the striker, but concerns over value for money and squad fit have made them hesitant. The Spanish champions are looking for a secondary striker in the mold of Joselu—not a marquee forward expecting regular starts.
Real Madrid’s current plans focus on bolstering squad depth. With Endrick sidelined by a hamstring injury, Castilla reserve striker Gonzalo Garcia is expected to fill in at the Club World Cup. Real have already made several moves in the market this summer, bringing in Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen to strengthen their defense.
Their most significant acquisition so far has been Franco Mastantuono from River Plate. The 17-year-old Argentine midfielder, once a rising tennis player, is joining Los Blancos in August after impressing in Argentina’s domestic league and scoring against Boca Juniors.
Madrid triggered his €63 million buyout clause, making it the most expensive transfer in Argentina’s football history. River Plate will receive €45 million from that deal, with the rest going toward fees and taxes. Mastantuono also made headlines recently by becoming the youngest player to represent Argentina in a World Cup qualifier.
As Gyokeres weighs up his next move, Arsenal and United continue to battle for his services, but with Real Madrid watching quietly and other clubs circling, his final destination remains uncertain.