Chelsea Faces €100 Million Demand for Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres Amid Striker Search

In the ongoing quest for a new striker, Chelsea have reportedly set their sights on Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres. However, the Premier League giants have encountered a significant hurdle as Sporting CP has slapped a hefty €100 million price tag on the Swedish international, according to rumours circulating in Portugal.

Sporting CP acquired Gyokeres from Coventry City in the summer of 2017 for €20 million (£17.2 million), and the striker’s stellar performances have propelled his value to new heights. With 20 goals and 10 assists in 24 appearances this season, Gyokeres has become a sought-after talent in Europe.

Chelsea yet to make an official bid for Viktor Gyokeres

While there were initial reports of a substantial bid from Chelsea, journalist Nizaar Kinsella of Standard Sport has refuted these claims, adding an air of uncertainty to the potential transfer. If Chelsea’s interest in Gyokeres is indeed genuine, they might be considering alternatives, possibly awaiting the availability of Napoli’s Victor Osimhen.

The Swede’s impressive form has not gone unnoticed, with both Chelsea and Arsenal reportedly in search of a new number nine. Chelsea, in particular, are said to have initiated a high-profile move for the Sporting CP striker, offering £73.1 million plus an additional €5 million in bonuses.

However, Sporting CP swiftly rejected this offer, insisting that Chelsea either meet Gyokeres’ €100 million (£86 million) release clause or forfeit the potential transfer. The Portuguese club appears resolute in their valuation of the striker, and Mauricio Pochettino’s team now faces a crucial decision in their pursuit.

Also Read: Karim Benzema Transfer: Man Utd Stance, Chelsea Interest and Arsenal snub

Meanwhile, Arsenal have also been linked to Gyokeres as both London clubs seek attacking reinforcements. The striker market is further complicated by the potential return of Ivan Toney from Brentford, whose eight-month suspension is set to end this month.

As Chelsea navigates the complexities of securing a new striker, the demand for Gyokeres highlights the escalating prices in the transfer market, posing challenges for clubs seeking to reinforce their attacking options in the current window.