Viktor Gyökeres is a 26-year-old Swede in the Portuguese League for Lisbon Sporting Clube de Portugal. Gyökeres is no stranger to some fans in England who previously represented Premier League sides Brighton and Swansea City and, most recently, Coventry City in the Championship.
Although never given a real chance in the Premier League, it was in the Championship that the Swedish international found his powers, creating a massive fan base among Coventry City fans and quickly establishing himself as a fan favourite.
Viktor Gyökeres Shines in the 2022/23 Championship Season
The 2022/23 Championship season felt the impact of the ‘big Swede’ as he placed the ball in the back of the net on 22 occasions and provided 12 assists to help Coventry City secure 5th place, which secured them a spot in the promotion play-offs.
Viktor Gyökeres’ Remarkable Rise at Sporting CP
This outstanding season saw him earn a move to Portuguese giants Sporting CP in a 20 million Euro deal, becoming the club’s most expensive signing ever, but one that would prove to be worth every penny.
During his first season with Sporting, Viktor Gyökeres established himself as one of the most prolific strikers in Europe, having contributed 57 goals in 50 games across all competitions.
These numbers enabled Gyökeres to lift his first career League title on what would be Sporting’s second League trophy in 20 years, in a season that nearly saw the Portuguese Goal-scoring record broken as Sporting tallied up 96 goals in 34 matches and only conceded 29.
Much like he had achieved in Coventry City, Gyökeres has already created a loyal fan base in Lisbon. He is by a country mile the fans’ favourite and is already regarded by many as one of the best strikers in the club’s history
At the start of the 2023/24 season, Gyökeres had already made a great start, playing two games where he scored one goal and provided three assists.
Viktor Gyökeres: The Bull of Portuguese Football
Viktor Gyökeres is often compared with a Bull by fans in Portugal, as he is known for his size, strength and speed.
At 6 ‘2 meters tall and weighing around 87 kg, he can easily run at defenders, using brute force to bully his way past back lines and finish with power and class.
Finishing isn’t his only strength. Viktor can also easily create chances for his teammates, often twisting and turning to change direction at a speed that never fails to leave defenders confused and unable to react in time.
The Swede also possesses a high level of cardio endurance. He can run up and down the pitch for ninety minutes while keeping up his great pace. These workhorse characteristics have left Sporting fans in love with their striker.
Gyökeres’ Long-Term Commitment to Sporting CP
Gyökeres signed a 5-year deal when joining Sporting CP, which sees him tied with the club until June 2028. His release clause is believed to be around £86 million, a hefty fee that could be a worthwhile investment for any club in Europe’s top five leagues.
Arsenal, Chelsea, and Atletico Madrid are among the clubs that have reportedly already inquired about the striker. However, they all received the same response: Sporting CP’s representatives pointed to the player’s release clause, indicating they won’t negotiate for less.
As things stand, Gyökeres will likely stay at the current Portuguese champions until the next transfer window in the summer. If he continues to impress, a big-money move could involve the 26-year-old.
