Amazing news hits Manchester United have received an unexpected advantage in their pursuit of Viktor Gyokeres, as the ace striker reveals that UCL football is not the main criteria he is looking at to join a new club giving the saga a new and surprising direction.

Manchester United Regain Advantage in Gyokeres Chase as Arsenal Reportedly Pull Back

Manchester United may have moved back into a stronger position in the race to sign Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres, with reports suggesting Arsenal are now stepping away from the pursuit.

Earlier in the week, what initially seemed like a straightforward transfer began to unravel when Sporting president Frederico Varandas denied agreeing to let Gyokeres leave for £51 million plus £8.5 million in bonuses. Although the striker’s representatives claimed a written gentleman’s agreement existed, the club has remained firm on receiving the full £68 million release clause.

While Arsenal had been trying to secure the Swedish international for less than that amount, Sporting’s refusal to lower their demands — despite Gyokeres’ reported frustration — appears to have ended the Gunners’ interest.

According to new reports from Portugal, Arsenal are now pausing their efforts to sign Gyokeres and are shifting their focus to alternative striker targets. RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko is reportedly their top choice now, with Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins also being considered as a fallback option.

This development could benefit Manchester United, who are still in the market for a new striker. Gyokeres remains a priority for United manager Ruben Amorim, who previously coached him at Sporting. Given their strong connection and Gyokeres’ impressive goal tally in Portugal, the forward may be a perfect fit for Amorim’s system at Old Trafford.