Sporting Lisbon star Viktor Gyokeres reveals his hefty €100m release clause likely deterred Arsenal from signing him this summer, but hints at a potential future move.
Viktor Gyokeres, the prolific Swedish forward, has shed light on the circumstances surrounding his speculated transfer to Arsenal this summer.
In an exclusive interview, Gyokeres admitted that his substantial €100m release clause probably discouraged the Gunners from making a move.
Gyokeres enjoyed a phenomenal 2023-24 season with Sporting Lisbon, scoring 43 goals and providing 15 assists in 50 appearances.
His impressive form has continued into the new season, with seven goals in the first four games.
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Despite his remarkable performances, Gyokeres remained at Sporting Lisbon, with Arsenal ultimately signing Raheem Sterling on loan from Chelsea.
The 26-year-old striker acknowledged that his release clause was likely a significant factor in Arsenal’s decision.
“The release clause was probably too much for them,” Gyokeres said, hinting that the fee was a deterrent.
However, he expressed his contentment with life at Sporting Lisbon, stating, “I’m happy here, but you never know what the future holds.”
Gyokeres’ comments suggest that while he is open to a potential move in the future, he is not actively seeking a transfer.
Chelsea had previously submitted a £73m offer, including bonuses, which was rejected by Sporting in January.
Gyokeres said:
‘They [Sporting] wanted most of the starting players to stay and held us tight.
That’s how it turned out, but I enjoy Sporting very well, so for me it was no problem to stay.’
‘It was probably a bit too much because nothing came of it. Of course it’s a lot of money. But we’ll see what happens next window.’
‘Nothing happened and it feels like I had a pretty good season. So yes, that’s probably why there was simply no move.
‘But that’s what Sporting thinks I’m worth, and then you have to respect that.’
‘I enjoy myself very much in Sporting and can’t complain about anything, so it’s absolutely no problem for me to stay.
Of course you aim to test other leagues and a higher level, but I have no stress.’
As Gyokeres joins up with the Sweden team for Nations League matches, his future remains a topic of interest.
With his impressive form and substantial release clause, he is likely to attract attention from top European clubs in the coming transfer windows.
