Sporting CP fans unveiled anti-Viktor Gyokeres banners at a pre-season game amid his impending move to Arsenal. Softball understands that the Swedish international has made it clear he dose not want to play for the Portuguese league champions anymore.
Talks betwen Sporting and Arsenal had been going on for weeks now as Gyokeres is seemingly set to head to Arsenal for €73.5 million (£63.4m/$86m). Two banners were unfurled at the Portuguese team’s pre-season friendly against Celtic at the Estadio Algarve on Wednesday, with one saying:
“No one is above the club’s interests. No matter who they are.”
Portuguese publication, A Bola, report that the second banner read:
“I don’t cry for those who leave, I’m happy for those who stay.”
Gyokeres has been prolific for Sporting over the past two years, scoring a whopping 97 goals in 102 games. He has helped them win multiple trophies but his recent actions have soured his relationship with the fans. Club president Frederico Varandas threatened the striker with disciplinary action but ultimately, Gyokeres looks set to get his wish and secure an Arsenal transfer.
While Portuguese champions Sporting prepare for life without the Sweden international, Arsenal fans will be eagerly awaiting news of when the 27-year-old’s switch to the Emirates is confirmed – be it in days or weeks.
Softfootball had been following Gyokeres transfer saga as the two clubs involved are yet to agree on bonus payment method despite agreeing to a total transfer fee. Arsenal has agreed a €73.5m transfer fee with Sporting Lisbon for striker Viktor Gyokeres.
The 27-year-old has been a long term target for the Gunners as they look to fix the striking position after ending last season without a recognisable target man which forced Arteta to play Spanish midfielder Mikel Merino in that position.
According to football transfer expert, David Ornstein, his sources in Lisbon have confirmed that the Portuguese club have reached an agreement with the Gunners for Gyokeres. The deal is worth €63.5m guaranteed fee plus €10m add-ons.
