Viktor Gyokeres has made it clear that a move to Arsenal is his priority after turning down both Juventus and Al-Hilal. His agent has reportedly informed Juventus that the Swedish striker is not interested in their offer, shutting down their pursuit despite a lucrative proposal on the table.
Juventus were ready to table a bid worth over £60 million, inclusive of add-ons, and offer the striker a five-year deal worth around £11 million per year before taxes. However, the Italian club received a firm message from Gyokeres’ camp that he only wants Arsenal.
Earlier this month, Arsenal’s sporting director Andrea Berta held direct talks with Sporting CP in Menorca. Their opening bid of £46.8 million plus an additional £8.5 million in bonuses was rejected by the Portuguese side.
Complicating matters is an agreement between Sporting and Gyokeres’ agent Hasan Cetinkaya, which entitles him to 10 percent of any offer exceeding £51 million that is turned down. That clause, agreed during the £20 million transfer from Coventry City two years ago, could backfire if activated.
Sporting have already expressed frustration over transfer speculation and public assumptions about a pre-agreed fee for Gyokeres. President Frederico Varandas took aim at Cetinkaya last week, emphasizing that no discount deal has been reached.
Despite having a €100 million (£85.1m) release clause, Sporting may accept less, though they remain firm on their valuation if agent interference escalates. If Cetinkaya enforces the sales clause, the club is expected to insist on the full release clause being met.
Gyokeres, 27, has also refused an approach from Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal this month. His sights are firmly set on Arsenal, and his agent’s stance has now reshaped the transfer race, removing Juventus from contention altogether.