Gyokeres Shifts Arsenal Stance After Manchester United Approach

Viktor Gyokeres has had a change of heart over joining Arsenal this summer, with Manchester United now in pole position to sign the Sporting striker. The striker is expected to leave Portugal this summer and is at the center of a transfer tug-of-war between the two Premier League giants.

It was reported earlier in June that Gyokeres had “officially” rejected United and a reunion with former Sporting head coach Ruben Amorim after Arsenal made their interest clear. Portuguese outlet Record claimed that United have been made aware of Gyokeres’ decision to snub a move to Old Trafford following discussions with the player’s agents.

Gyokeres was then said to have told friends and family that he would sign for Arsenal this summer, despite the Gunners being in talks with both Sporting and RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko regarding summer deals before making a decision.

Sporting are demanding at least €70million (£59.6m) to begin negotiations over a fee, and recent reports suggested that Arsenal were clear favorites to sign Gyokeres, even after seeing an opening bid worth €55m (£47m) reportedly rejected.

However, The Mirror now claims that United are back in the frame and are seen by some as the most likely destination for Gyokeres, despite being unable to offer Champions League football. Arsenal are currently wrapping up deals for Christian Norgaard and Kepa Arrizabalaga for a combined £15million and are expected to step up moves for a striker next week after the PSR deadline passes on June 30.

The Gunners are said to favor Sesko, who could prove to be a cheaper option with Sporting holding firm on their asking price for Gyokeres. This situation has reportedly led Gyokeres to reassess his options, with United being the most prominent alternative. The Mirror reports that intermediaries have contacted United on the player’s behalf to inform them of his change of heart and that he is ready to move to Old Trafford.