Just when you thought the summer transfer market couldn’t get any messier, Viktor Gyökeres has stirred the pot — without really saying much.
The Sporting striker, heavily linked with moves to Arsenal and Manchester United, popped up on Instagram with a vague message that’s done little to ease the uncertainty.
“There’s a lot of talk right now, most of it false,” he posted in an Instagram Story. “I will speak when the time is right.”
Translation? He’s not ready to confirm anything — but it’s clear something’s brewing.
A Tug-of-War Between Agent and Club
Behind the scenes, the drama is escalating. According to Portuguese outlet Record, there’s been a significant shift in Sporting’s stance.
Earlier this season, Gyökeres was reportedly given a gentleman’s agreement allowing him to leave for €60 million plus €10 million in add-ons — a figure both sides seemingly agreed upon.
But now, Sporting appears to have changed course.
The club is said to be demanding closer to €80 million (£67 million), which has reportedly left Gyökeres furious — to the point of allegedly threatening to go on strike.
Sporting’s President Hits Back
Sporting president Frederico Varandas hasn’t stayed quiet.
In a firm, almost combative statement, he publicly addressed the escalating speculation.
“One thing you should already know is that threats, blackmail, and insults don’t work with me,” he said bluntly.
“Sporting hasn’t received a single offer for Viktor — not now, not last season.”
Varandas also emphasized that no formal promise was made to let the striker go for €60m + €10m, pushing back on the narrative reportedly coming from Gyökeres’ camp.
From Agreement to Argument: Where Did It All Go Wrong?
Varandas acknowledged that there had been discussions with Gyökeres and his agent last year.
Sporting agreed not to enforce the full €100 million release clause due to Gyökeres’ age and ambition to play Champions League football.
They had agreed to “use common sense” in evaluating future offers.
But things soured. Varandas claims the agent kept pushing to fix a price, suggesting €60m or €70m — but the president didn’t want to commit.
“There’s no point in setting a number,” he said.
“What if he gets injured? What if his performance drops?”
Since then, he says, there’s been no contact with the agent or the player about any agreed transfer price.
Signs of a Break-Up on Social Media
If you check Gyökeres’ Instagram, you’ll notice something odd — or telling.
He’s scrubbed all mentions of Sporting, Sweden, and even Nike. That’s not just an aesthetic choice; it feels very intentional.
He may still have three years left on his Sporting contract, but from the outside, it looks like he’s emotionally moved on.
After two stellar seasons, including two league titles and a domestic double this year, the Swedish forward seems eager for his next big challenge.
Arsenal and United Circle, but No Deals Yet
There’s definitely interest. Arsenal’s need for a striker is no secret, and while Benjamin Sesko is believed to be their top target, Gyökeres’ name keeps popping up.
Reports suggest his agent has even flown to London for meetings with the Gunners.
Manchester United could also come into play, especially with Gyökeres’ old manager Ruben Amorim now on their radar
. There’s a possible reunion on the cards — if the numbers (and egos) line up.
So, What Happens Next?
At this point, it’s a waiting game. Sporting are standing firm. Gyökeres is clearly unsettled.
The agent is working in the background. And clubs like Arsenal and United are watching it all unfold.
One thing’s for sure: the Viktor Gyökeres saga is far from over — and when he does finally decide to speak, expect fireworks.