Sporting Push Gyokeres To Man Utd, But Swedish Star Holds Out For Arsenal

Manchester United were offered a chance to hijack Arsenal’s transfer move for Viktor Gyokeres for a second week in a row by Sporting CP, but the Swedish striker has made it clear that his preferred destination remains Arsenal. Last week, reports emerged that the Red Devils could swoop in and secure a transfer for Gyokeres after talks between Sporting and the Gunners stalled.

WHAT HAPPENED?
United, who are still looking to add a No.9 to their squad before the summer transfer window closes on September 1, was given another chance to sign Gyokeres by Sporting CP, according to Fabrizio Romano. The Swedish striker, however, has no intention of heading to Manchester as he remains keen on a move to Arsenal.

THE BIGGER PICTURE
The Red Devils had an opportunity to match Sporting CP’s valuation for Gyokeres for the second week in a row as talks with the Gunners have stalled due to disagreement over the terms of payment for the striker’s €70 million (£60.6m/$81.4m) fee. While the Portuguese side want the entire sum of money upfront, Arsenal are offering to pay €63.5 million at first and the remaining amount in add-ons.

DID YOU KNOW?
According to The Athletic’s David Ornstein, the Red Devils made a move for Hugo Ekitike earlier in the window, but the Eintracht Frankfurt forward had his eyes on a Liverpool transfer. A possible swoop for Gyokeres was then discussed, but United have decided that they won’t advance on any player unless they are eager to join the club.

WHAT NEXT FOR MANCHESTER UNITED?
United will jet off to the U.S. to continue with their pre-season preparations and are scheduled to play their first friendly against West Ham at MetLife Stadium on July 26.

Goal.com