Gyokeres ‘Goes on Strike’ as Man Utd Transfer Saga Intensifies

Sporting Lisbon Star Refuses to Play Amid Broken Promises

A potential move to Manchester United for prolific striker Viktor Gyokeres has hit a snag, as the player has reportedly ceased participation with Sporting Lisbon in protest of a disputed transfer agreement. The 26-year-old’s actions signal a deepening conflict with his current club and could dramatically alter the landscape of this summer’s transfer window.

Stalled Negotiations and a Furious Forward

Gyokeres enjoyed a stellar 2024/25 season, netting 54 goals across all competitions and establishing himself as a leading contender for the top scorer title. Manchester United identified him as a key target after failing to secure Liam Delap, who opted for Chelsea. Despite initial optimism fueled by a reported ‘gentleman’s agreement’ allowing a transfer for around 70 million euros – significantly less than his 100 million euro release clause – the situation has soured.

Recent reports indicate that Sporting Lisbon has reneged on this supposed agreement, now demanding a higher fee for the player. This has reportedly left Gyokeres “furious,” leading to his drastic decision to refuse further participation for the Portuguese champions. According to a report from Record, he has informed the club he “will not play for them again” as he “feels let down.”

United’s Pursuit and Arsenal’s Interest

Manchester United have maintained consistent contact regarding Gyokeres, with multiple inquiries made over the past week to assess the situation and explore potential financial viability, particularly given their failure to qualify for Champions League football. However, as of this afternoon, no formal bid has been submitted.

“Man Utd have called last week, have called over the weekend, and have called again this week for Gyokeres to be informed about the player, to understand the conditions, to understand what’s going on with Sporting, to understand if there is still a chance to make it happen financially after not making it into Champions League.”

—Fabrizio Romano, Transfer Expert

The Premier League has seen a significant increase in player transfers exceeding £50 million in recent years, with a record £2.36 billion spent in the 2023 summer window, according to Deloitte. Deloitte’s 2023/24 analysis highlights the growing financial power of English clubs.

Arsenal also remain interested in Gyokeres as a potential alternative should their pursuit of Benjamin Sesko fall through. Conversations regarding Sesko are reportedly progressing, but the Gunners are keeping their options open.

Further United Activity

Manchester United are also nearing the signing of Bryan Mbuemo, following in the footsteps of Matheus Cunha, as Ruben Amorim continues to reshape the squad. Amorim previously worked with Gyokeres at Sporting Lisbon, and the player is reportedly “very keen” to reunite with his former manager.

The outcome of Gyokeres’s strike and Sporting Lisbon’s stance will be crucial in determining whether Manchester United can successfully land their primary target. The situation remains fluid, and further developments are expected in the coming days.