**Viktor Gyokeres Addresses Arsenal Transfer Speculation After Cup Triumph**
Swedish striker Viktor Gyokeres has spoken publicly for the first time about mounting speculation linking him with a big-money move to Arsenal, following a stellar end to the season that saw him play a critical role in Sporting Lisbon’s recent silverware success. As transfer rumours continue to swirl, Gyokeres’ future is rapidly becoming one of the summer’s most debated topics.
Sporting Lisbon capped off their 2024/25 campaign in memorable fashion, claiming a dramatic victory over Benfica in the Portuguese Cup final. Gyokeres underlined his importance to the team, converting a crucial penalty deep into stoppage time to level the match and push proceedings into extra time. After Benfica’s Orkun Kokcu had put his side ahead, Sporting responded with heightened resolve, eventually sealing a 3-1 win courtesy of extra-time goals from Conrad Harder and Francisco Trincao.
Gyokeres, whose outstanding season has seen him notch 53 goals and 13 assists from 51 appearances, was instrumental in both legs of his team’s domestic double – having already helped deliver the league title. His prolific output inevitably attracted the attention of Europe’s elite clubs, with Arsenal reportedly placing him at the top of their summer transfer wish list.
In the aftermath of Sporting’s cup celebrations, Gyokeres was inevitably quizzed about his plans for the future. While the Swedish international refrained from making any definitive statements, his remarks suggested that a decision may be imminent. “Let us see,” Gyokeres told journalists, attempting to strike a diplomatic note. “It’s hard to say exactly what will happen because football can be unpredictable, and the summer always brings change. It wouldn’t be right for me to comment much more at this stage.”
Further pressed about reports linking him to a move to North London, Gyokeres stressed his commitment to Sporting Lisbon’s immediate goals. “Honestly, my focus has been fully on these last games. They’ve been so important for the team and for me. If there’s anything to discuss about a transfer, we’ll see over the summer,” he added, keeping his cards close to his chest.
Behind the scenes, it is understood that Arsenal are optimistic about landing the talented forward, having reportedly prepared an offer anticipated to meet Sporting’s £60 million valuation. The Gunners, who narrowly finished runners-up in the Premier League for the third consecutive season, are believed to be ready to offer wages exceeding £200,000 per week in their attempt to recruit the potent striker they have so acutely lacked.
For Gyokeres, the current interest represents a remarkable ascent since his days in the English Championship. A loan stint at Swansea City from Brighton, managed by then-boss Steve Cooper, saw the striker score just once in an FA Cup encounter – a period now overshadowed by his meteoric rise on the continent. Since joining Sporting, he has firmly established himself as one of the most sought-after forwards in European football.
Negotiations regarding Gyokeres’ future are expected to be put on hold until after the conclusion of Sporting’s successful campaign. However, transfer talks are widely anticipated to progress quickly once the off-season begins, with Arsenal considered one of the frontrunners willing to meet the club’s terms for the 26-year-old’s signature.
For Arsenal, a consistent goalscorer is a pressing need. Injuries to Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz proved damaging to their title pursuit, prompting Mikel Arteta to call for reinforcements at the upper end of the pitch. Arteta is keeping his cards close but made the club’s ambitions clear, stating, “If you want to win major trophies, you have to be the best in the market. With the injuries we’ve had up front, it’s vital we add firepower and creativity.”
There are other targets on the club’s radar, including highly-rated RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko, but inside reports suggest Gyokeres remains their number one choice. Arsenal’s newly appointed sporting director, Andrea Berta, is tasked with overseeing recruitment and is reportedly leading the charge to secure the Swede’s services.
Gyokeres’ reticence will do little to dampen speculation as negotiations prepare to get underway. Both Sporting and Arsenal supporters are now watching developments with keen interest, as one of European football’s brighter talents considers where his future lies.