Viktor Gyokeres has "officially" rejected Manchester United and a reunion with former Sporting head coach Ruben Amorim, after Arsenal reportedly made their interest clear.
That's according to Portuguese outlet Record, who report on Saturday morning that United have been made aware of Gyokeres' decision to snub a move to Old Trafford after talks with the player's agents.
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With Sporting demanding at least €70million (£59.6m) to begin negotiations over a fee, Record express doubts United could afford to sign Gyokeres ahead of the likes of Arsenal.
United have already spent £62.5m on Matheus Cunha and hope to also add Bryan Mbeumo, who could cost even more with Tottenham now in the mix.
“The footballer’s agents have officially told Ruben Amorim’s club that he is no longer an option for the striker,” Record reports.
“United made several contacts over the last week, as we wrote, but with Arsenal’s advance, this possibility lost strength and, in the last few hours, it has fallen away completely.
“The Red Devils made an offer to the Swede but did not present arguments capable of convincing him. Gyökeres prefers Arsenal, who are preparing a second offer, after Sporting rejected 55+10.
“Although they had not completely ruled out United up until this stage, the player’s representatives never considered the Manchester club as a priority option.”
Arsenal are now thought to be clear favourites to sign Gyokeres, though the club retain interest in Benjamin Sesko for their vacant striker spot.
The Gunners and RB Leipzig have been in talks for some time over a deal before reports of a rejected bid for Gyokeres emerged. A second bid is now reportedly incoming from Arsenal.
