Viktor Gyokeres to Arsenal transfer twist as 'agreement' revealed and Sporting stance clear

Arsenal have been thrown a curveball in the race to sign Viktor Gyokeres. The Sporting CP striker has been heavily linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium for a while now as .

Gyokeres, who sees his contract at the José Alvalade Stadium expire in June 2028, featured 33 times in the Portuguese top-flight this season, scoring 39 goals and providing eight assists. Playing a key role in Rui Borges' side, .

The 26-year-old also got his hands on the Golden Boot for a second successive campaign. , with lots of top clubs, including Arsenal, said to be chasing his signature.

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In fact, football.london understands that , with interest dating back to his spell at Coventry City in the Championship. Despite catching the eye in his debut season at Sporting, Arsenal, like many other clubs, decided against making a bid.

But, the Sweden international continued to find the net, making him an attractive option this summer. football.london understands that , but – as it stands – an official offer hasn't been submitted.

Speaking to reporters on Saturday after clinching the title, . As quoted by Portuguese outlet , the Sporting boss said: "I'm not going to sit here and talk about whether he's leaving or not, when he's our player.

"But I believe he's the best striker in Europe and maybe in the world. I'm happy for him and hope that he can win the Golden boot. He deserves it, for everything he's done for our team and all the hard work he's put in daily.

"There has been some moments where he struggled physically, and he still gave his all to try and help the team. I'm happy on that front, but what the future holds for him, we'll soon see."

According to , Sporting have agreed to let Gyokeres leave the club this summer if his asking price, which is thought to be €65m (£54.6m), is met. The report claims that the club and the player reached an agreement on his exit terms earlier this season.

Speaking to reporters last month, the Sporting boss suggested that Gyokeres could leave in the summer. As quoted by the , Borges said: "Sporting recognised his talent, and here we are.

"Fortunately, we have him at Sporting. We must make the most of the time we have with him because he is truly exceptional. I have said this before, and I will continue to say it.

"He brings a lot to the team, and his teammates are aware of what he contributes, which is why they look for him during games. The collective effort also plays a role, as no one can succeed alone.

"Viktor is a game-changer, and he will continue to be, whether with us or elsewhere. His quality is undeniable; it is phenomenal."

Gyokeres was later asked about on a potential move to Arsenal, but he remained tight-lipped. Following Sporting's 3-1 win over Moreirense last month, he was asked if he liked London. He replied: "I like Lisbon."

Then, on his 'gentleman's agreement' to leave the club in the summer, Gyokeres added: "I can’t say anything about that. No one can predict what will happen, we enjoy the moment..."