Viktor Gyokeres Sparks Major Transfer Battle as Sporting Clash Over Release Clause Terms
A contractual provision in Viktor Gyökeres's deal that could complicate Sporting CP's ability to reject bids below their valuation is now reportedly in effect.
Despite persistent interest from Arsenal and continued speculation linking him with Manchester United, where he could rejoin his former manager Ruben Amorim, Gyökeres remains no nearer to completing a move.
The Swedish striker possesses a €100 million (£86.5 million, $117.6 million) buyout clause that, when activated, would guarantee his departure without Sporting having any power to prevent it.
However, tension has emerged between Gyökeres and his current club following reports that he feels let down by their unwillingness to accept offers as low as €60 million (£51.9 million, $70.6 million), with allegations of a verbal agreement established between both parties during the previous summer.
While Sporting are prepared to consider amounts below the complete release clause, with president Frederico Varandas publicly acknowledging this stance, reports indicate that the Portuguese title holders are seeking approximately €80 million (£69.2 million, $94.1 million).
A fresh twist in this transfer story could prove significant. A Bola reports on a contractual term that guarantees Gyökeres's representative a commission equal to 10% of any bid exceeding €60 million that Sporting decline. Arsenal are reportedly prepared to meet that threshold, but this could result in the Portuguese club owing €6 million (£5.2 million, $7.1 million) to Hasan Cetinkaya.
While this clause's existence isn't breaking news, the key factor is that it has now become active.
Should Arsenal present a €60 million proposal, it would challenge Sporting's determination, understanding that turning it down might prove costly while offering no assurance of receiving a superior bid. According to A Bola, if Sporting were to provide Cetinkaya with the required payment, it would likely lead them to increase their demands to the complete €100 million figure, which could subsequently discourage Cetinkaya from pursuing the commission.