Manchester United are attempting a late hijack of Arsenal’s pursuit of Viktor Gyokeres after tabling an improved bid to Sporting Lisbon that nudges above the Gunners’ long‑standing €70–80 million range. Talks accelerated over the weekend as United moved to exploit a lull in negotiations between Sporting and Arsenal, with Portuguese reports indicating the Premier League side is edging toward a broad agreement in principle with the Lisbon club.
Sporting, led by Ruben Amorim, have held firm on an €80 million valuation and have rebuffed multiple approaches this summer. United’s latest proposal is understood to be structured with achievable add‑ons that would take the overall package slightly beyond what Arsenal have been prepared to commit so far. Club voices caution that nothing is signed, and earlier United bids were dismissed, yet there is growing belief that a compromise could emerge if Sporting receive the payment guarantees they want.
Arsenal’s interest has cooled in recent days amid internal debate over fee discipline after six days without movement on price. Gyokeres has privately expressed admiration for Arsenal’s project, Champions League football, and the chance to challenge immediately for the Premier League title, factors that initially put the North London side in pole position. Yet without a breakthrough on valuation, that pathway is stalling.
A return to Sporting for 2025/26 remains on the table should neither English suitor meet the price. Amorim previously guided Gyokeres to a Portuguese league crown, and the player’s camp recognises that staying put in an environment where he thrives would not be the worst outcome.
Manchester United’s pursuit comes amid a wider attacking rebuild. The club have completed a move for Matheus Cunha from Wolves and are pushing to finalise a deal for Bryan Mbeumo after Brentford accepted a third offer. United have also faced setbacks: Liam Delap chose Chelsea, while Hugo Ekitike declined a switch to Old Trafford.
One wrinkle is United’s absence from European competition next season, a factor the player must weigh against a wage uplift and starring role in a rebuild under sporting leadership. Payment structuring could help bridge the valuation gap.
The coming days will be decisive. Sporting want clarity before deepening their own market moves, Arsenal must decide whether to stretch, and United are pressing to capitalise on momentum as the summer window ticks on. For now, all options remain open, but the pressure is rising on all parties to make a call.
