Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres has snubbed a potential move to Manchester United in favour of joining Arsenal, Fabrizio Romano has confirmed.
Heading into the summer transfer window, Ruben Amorim made adding goals to the team his top priority. Following the signing of Matheus Cunha from Wolverhampton Wanderers and the arrival of Brentfords Bryan Mbeumo, who was announced on Monday evening, the club has also been linked with a move for a striker.
The Red Devils missed out on first-choice target Liam Delap, who elected to join Chelsea instead, forcing them to turn their attention to alternative targets, including Gyokeres.
Gyokeres enjoyed a prolific 2024/25 season, striking 54 goals in 52 appearances across all competitions.
United have been pursuing the Swede for weeks, but it was abundantly clear he had his heart set on a switch to Arsenal, who could offer him the chance to play in the Champions League.
But, there was still a slim chance United could swoop in and land Gyokeres, with a report claiming that he was gradually opening up to the possibility of reuniting with Amorim at Old Trafford.
These hopes were boosted further after Sporting president Frederico Varandas publicly warned Arsenal that Gyokeres will not be allowed to join them unless his valuation is met.
But, David Ornstein revealed that Mikel Arteta’s side were closing in on a deal for Gyokeres after a breakthrough in talks with Sporting.
It seemed negotiations might drag on, giving United a chance to make a move, but it’s now officially over.
Now, it has been confirmed that a full agreement has been reached and, barring any last-minute surprises, Gyokeres will not be heading to United as he will become an Arsenal player.
Romano has even confirmed the move with his famous “here we go” catchphrase.
The Italian journalist wrote on X, “BREAKING: Viktor Gykeres to Arsenal, here we go! Verbal agreement in place between all parties involved.”
“Sporting accept last bid from Arsenal for 63.5m plus 10m, agent will reduce his commission.”
“Gykeres will sign five five-year deal at Arsenal. He only wanted Arsenal!”
BREAKING: Viktor Gykeres to Arsenal, here we go! Verbal agreement in place between all parties involved.
Sporting accept last bid from Arsenal for 63.5m plus 10m, agent will reduce his commission.
Gykeres will sign five year deal at #AFC. He ONLY wanted Arsenal. pic.twitter.com/qAmrTn7Eax
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 22, 2025
This represents a significant blow to United, who must now go back to the drawing board and reassess their striker plans.
Other options mentioned to be on the club’s radar include Benjamin Sesko (RB Leipzig) and Dusan Vlahovic (Juventus).
Featured image Gualter Fatia via Getty Images
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Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the game extensively for many years. He is a keen analyst with expertise in SEO and journalism standards. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!
