When we say that Viktor Gyokeres was right under Premier League club’s noses when he escaped to Portugal, it’s no exaggeration.
As Radio Renascença now features a special series on the striker’s fantastic start at Sporting, it’s revealed that Fulham, West Ham United and Wolverhampton Wanderers all tried to sign him.
That was said by Swedish journalist Daniel Kristoffersson. He was one of those who spoke to the outlet from Gyokeres’ home country, and Leonino now bring some of the quotes.
Speaking of the battle that Sporting had to sign Gyokeres, the reporter mentioned Fulham, West Ham and Wolves interest in keeping him in England.
“His agent is known for getting players into the right squads. He took Emil Forsberg to Leipzig, for example. Although it’s hard to say no to the Premier League. Viktor had a lot of offers: Wolverhampton, Fulham and West Ham were interested. Everyone thought he was going to the Premier League, but he didn’t.”
“He went to Sporting and everyone wondered why. But now everyone has realised why. How many goals is that? 21? Now everyone knows he made the right decision.”
Even though Coventry City didn’t get promotion to the Premier League in the 2022/23 season, Gyokeres had a very good campaign with them, scoring 22 goals in the Championship.
That convinced Sporting to spend €20m on his signing, and the results were immediate. He already has 32 goals and 11 assists at the Portuguese club.
Gyokeres is obviously linked to a Premier League move now, but with a €100m release clause protecting Sporting, it’s much less likely that Fulham, West Ham or Wolves would manage to sign him now.
