Sporting Lisbon has signed striker, Viktor Gyökeres from Coventry City for a club-record undisclosed fee.
Sporting will reportedly pay a total transfer fee of £20.5m, consisting of an initial £17m fee followed by £3.5m in add-ons which marks Coventry’s biggest-ever transfer sale, with Gyökeres signing a five-year contract with Sporting until June 2028 which will contain a £68.3m release clause.
Gyökeres’ departure brings the 25 year-old Swede’s two-and-a-half year stint with Coventry to a close, having initially joined on loan from Brighton in January 2021, before he made his move permanent seven months later.
During his time at Coventry, Gyökeres has scored 43 goals in 116 appearances and was part of the team which suffered Play-Off Final heartbreak against Luton Town last season, as their promotion hopes were ended in a tense penalty shootout at Wembley Stadium.
His 21 league goals last season also saw Gyökeres named in the 2022-23 Championship’s Team of the Season, alongside his teammate and goalkeeper – Ben Wilson.
Coventry’s Executive Chairman, Douglas King issued the following statement in relation to Gyokeres’ departure: “After a long discussion, we have finally concluded a deal that is right for all parties concerned and confirm the transfer of Viktor Gyökeres to Sporting Lisbon.
“Viktor has made a huge impression in his time with us and leaves many great memories and we wish him every success with his new club.
“Once again, the quality of the coaching staff at our club has been showcased.”
King however iterated that the fee won’t be paid in full as he addressed plans to replace the Swede, as he added: “This is a record transfer fee for Coventry City but as is normal will be paid over an extended period, with Brighton & Hove Albion taking a meaningful percentage share.
“We have already been active in the market as we rebuild for the new season and will continue to recruit selectively but these funds will also support the extensive infrastructure projects the club is undertaking.”
Leave a Reply