Viktor Gyokeres's Agent Drops Bombshell: Man Utd Made Secret Transfer Move "Behind Our Backs"

An agent representing Arsenal forward Viktor Gyökeres has revealed that Sporting CP had actually reached an agreement to transfer the Swedish striker to Manchester United during the summer window.

The North London club faced significant challenges securing the £63.5 million ($84.6 million) deal, enduring a complicated transfer saga that featured disputes between Gyökeres and his representatives against Sporting's inflexible negotiating approach.

Reports emerged of a potential last-minute intervention from United, where ex-Sporting manager Ruben Amorim was widely expected to seek a reunion with the player, and one of Gyökeres's representatives has now disclosed that both clubs had reached terms on a fee exceeding Arsenal's offer, though the forward declined to be pushed into that transfer.

"There were enormous sums proposed from Saudi Arabia," Jonathan Chalkias, who assists primary agent Hasan Çetinkaya, shared with Studio Allsvenskan. "We must act in his best interests. Naturally [representatives receive compensation]. It represents substantial money. Perhaps Viktor will address that at some point.

"I believe we never once pressured him to accept any proposal. Ultimately, financial rewards are temporary and this Arsenal transfer provides significant marketing opportunities.

"[Sporting] had finalized an agreement with Manchester United without our knowledge, which created issues. United presented a larger transfer sum."

Chalkias proceeded to claim that Sporting lacked legitimate authority to obstruct negotiations to such an extent, criticizing president Frederico Varandas for what he viewed as unprofessional conduct.

"Had [former sporting director Hugo] Viana remained at Sporting, this transaction would have concluded in sixty minutes," Chalkias added.

"All documentation was prepared but we lacked time to pursue legal action. I cannot comprehend how a player with such goal-scoring records and three championship wins didn't warrant greater respect.

"This business relies on mutual trust. The concessions we accepted were likely crucial in finalizing the agreement. They pitched him to Real Madrid, generated media attention with Madrid and even United, but from the beginning there was dedication to Arsenal."