‘Unbelievable’ – Arsenal target Viktor Gyokeres’ former strike partner reveals his key to success

Viktor Gyokeres, a standout striker at Sporting Lisbon, has attracted attention from top clubs like Arsenal and Manchester United due to his impressive goal-scoring record. With a release clause of £85 million but rumored potential transfer talks of around £60 million, his move could influence betting outcomes, particularly for punters considering positions on European league performances or transfer market decisions based on club interest.

Viktor Gyokeres’ drive and determination has paved the way for his stunning goalscoring record at Sporting Lisbon. That’s the view of his former teammate Matty Godden, who believes the Swede will be deserving of a huge move in the summer window.

Gyokeres has excelled for Portuguese giants Sporting. Gyokeres netted 43 times in 116 matches for Coventry City before his reported €20million [£17million] move to Sporting in 2023. Since then, the 27-year-old has scored 97 goals in two outstanding seasons to become one of the most sought-after players in Europe.

Arsenal and Manchester United have both been linked with Gyokeres, who has a release clause of £85m. And Charlton Athletic forward Godden, who played alongside him at Coventry on 59 occasions, gave a glowing review of his mentality. Speaking on talkSPORT Breakfast, he said: “What he’s done, probably since he came in at Coventry, has been unbelievable to be fair.

“He came in on loan [from Brighton] and didn’t really do much, then we signed him that summer and he came back a different animal. “He’s so quick, so powerful and probably the biggest part of him, he was so driven to go on and do something, and I think he’s probably done that again at Sporting. “He’s gone there and been like, ‘I’m the main man, I’m going to score 30, 40 goals this season and kick on again.’ I think he deserves his move when he gets it.”

talkSPORT understands that Gyokeres has told his friends and family that he expects to join Arsenal this summer. He worked with United head coach Ruben Amorim at Sporting, but the Gunners are able to offer him Champions League football.

However, Gyokeres is reportedly considering drastic action in order to complete a move away from Sporting. Reports in Portugal have claimed he is threatening to go on strike in response to the club seemingly upping their asking price.

Despite his £85m release clause, Gyokeres’ agent Hasan Cetinkaya has claimed Sporting would accept a transfer fee of around £60m. This is due to a supposed gentlemen’s agreement, but club president Frederico Varandas issued a strong response earlier this month. “Sporting will not accept blackmail or insults now,” he said. “One thing is certain: Sporting will not accept 60 million plus 10 [£51.5m plus £8.5m]. “As of today, Sporting has not received any proposal for Gyokeres.”

Gyokeres is in line for a huge transfer this summer. But he is said to be ‘heartbroken’ by Sporting not honouring the agreement. Gyokeres appeared to respond to Varandas’ comments with a cryptic message on Instagram. “There is a lot of talk at the moment, most of it is false. I will speak when the time is right.”

Talksport