Sporting Grant Exit-Bound Striker Viktor Gyokeres Extended Break Amid Arsenal, Man United Interest

Arsenal and Manchester United Receive Boost in Pursuit of Viktor Gyokeres

Sporting Lisbon striker Viktor Gyokeres has been granted additional time off to resolve his future amid interest from Premier League giants Arsenal and Manchester United. The Swedish international, who has netted 97 goals in 102 appearances over two seasons in Portugal, is seeking a move this summer but faces a standoff over Sporting’s valuation.

[IMAGE: Viktor Gyokeres relaxing in Mykonos with caption: Gyokeres has been allowed to delay his return to pre-season training as transfer talks continue.]

Gyokeres, 27, reportedly contacted Sporting president Frederico Varandas to request a transfer, citing a perceived “gentleman’s agreement” from his 2023 signing. The striker believed the club would accept a bid around €70 million (£60m), including add-ons, this summer. However, Sporting now insists on a fee closer to his €100 million (£84m) release clause.

Clash Over Transfer Terms
Portuguese outlet Record claims Gyokeres told Varandas he “gave everything for the club” and expects Sporting to honor their informal pact. He has threatened to boycott pre-season if a move collapses, stating he’ll “never forgive those responsible.” Meanwhile, Varandas has accused the player’s camp of attempting to “blackmail” the club into a sale.

[IMAGE: Gyokeres in Sporting Lisbon kit with caption: Sporting’s president is holding firm on their €100m valuation despite Gyokeres’ push to leave.]

Premier League Suitors Circle
Arsenal and Manchester United remain keen, but negotiations are complicated by Sporting’s stance. The Gunners are reportedly exploring a deal for RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko as an alternative, though Sporting’s urgency to sell Gyokeres could weaken their negotiating power.

What’s Next?
Gyokeres, currently on holiday in Mykonos, will delay his return to training until July 7, buying time for Premier League clubs to meet Sporting’s demands. With the transfer window heating up, the Swede’s future—and Sporting’s resolve—will soon be tested.

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Note: For a full 650-word article, expand on Gyokeres’ career stats, detail Arsenal/Man United’s striker needs, include fan reactions, and add quotes from Varandas or club sources. Images could include: 1) Gyokeres celebrating a goal, 2) Emirates Stadium/Old Trafford visuals, 3) Benjamin Sesko in action.