Man Utd Target Caught in Transfer Storm as Portuguese Club “Moves Goalposts” on Gentleman’s Agreement
Viktor Gyökeres is locked in an explosive standoff with Sporting CP after the Portuguese champions allegedly reneged on their promise to sell him for €70m this summer – with the furious Swedish striker’s representatives threatening to release private audio evidence of the broken agreement.
The 27-year-old goal machine, who has taken Primeira Liga by storm with 43 goals in just 54 appearances, was assured last September he could leave for €60m plus €10m in add-ons according to Portuguese outlet Record. But with Manchester United making daily calls to his agents in their desperate striker search, Sporting are now reportedly demanding €80m – sparking accusations of betrayal from the player’s camp.
The escalating row has seen Gyökeres’ agency HCM allegedly threaten to leak audio messages and WhatsApp exchanges from Sporting’s former football director Hugo Viana that supposedly prove the €70m exit clause was formally agreed. This nuclear option comes after:
- Arsenal cooled interest to pursue Benjamin Šeško instead
- United emerged as most likely destination despite lacking Champions League football
- Sporting allegedly offered €500k bonus as “consolation” for staying last season
A source close to negotiations told Record: “The president never set a fixed price” – a claim vehemently disputed by Gyökeres’ representatives who possess what they believe is smoking gun evidence.
For cash-strapped United, the controversy presents both opportunity and risk. While the player’s anger might force Sporting’s hand, the club’s limited budget could still scupper a deal even at €70m. As the saga turns increasingly toxic, all eyes are on whether Gyökeres’ camp will follow through on their threat to go public with their evidence – a move that could burn bridges with one of Europe’s most talent-rich clubs.
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