Chelsea Football Club is closing in on a major signing ahead of the 2025 summer transfer window, with Sporting CP’s red-hot striker Viktor Gyökeres firmly in their sights.
The 26-year-old Swedish international has been a sensation in Portugal, netting an astounding 87 goals in just 95 matches since arriving at Sporting in 2023.
His explosive performances have drawn inevitable comparisons to Swedish legend Zlatan Ibrahimović and have triggered an intense battle among Premier League powerhouses such as Arsenal, Manchester United, and Liverpool.
However, it is Chelsea who now lead the race to land the prolific forward, as they look to strengthen their attack for the 2025/26 season under new manager Enzo Maresca.
Chelsea’s pursuit of Gyökeres has been ongoing, with fresh talks reportedly held with his representatives as early as April 2025.
Despite strong interest from Arsenal — who were initially seen as favourites after Gyökeres publicly praised the Gunners — and Manchester United, managed by his former Sporting boss Ruben Amorim, the Blues have surged ahead.
Liverpool also made a late push to sign him, but they have shifted focus to other targets, notably Nottingham Forest’s Murillo.
Sporting CP originally demanded Gyökeres’ full £85.3 million release clause.
However, newer reports suggest they may accept an offer between £55 million and £70 million, recognising his massive contribution to the club.
Chelsea are prepared to put forward a bid of around £65 million, believing it represents fair value for a striker who has consistently delivered at the highest level in Portugal.
With Nicolas Jackson struggling for consistency, Chelsea’s move for a proven No. 9 fits perfectly with their summer strategy.
Arsenal had hoped to lure Gyökeres by offering a lucrative contract worth between £9-10 million annually through to 2030. Meanwhile, Manchester United’s Champions League absence has severely dented their appeal.
Chelsea’s strong Premier League finish—ending the 2024/25 season in second place—and their ambitious long-term project under Maresca have reportedly convinced Gyökeres that Stamford Bridge is the ideal next step.
Gyökeres has long admired Zlatan Ibrahimović, often naming him alongside Cristiano Ronaldo as inspirations for their determination and excellence.
His journey from Swedish side Brommapojkarna to making a name for himself at Coventry City in England mirrors Zlatan’s own early career trajectory.
Like Zlatan, Gyökeres possesses strength, finishing ability, and a keen sense of positioning, though he incorporates a more modern, selfless approach to the striker role.
In November 2024, Gyökeres etched his name into Swedish football history by becoming only the second Swede to score a Champions League hat-trick, doing so in a 4-1 victory over Manchester City.
His recognition with the 2024 Guldbollen award, honouring Sweden’s best footballer, cemented his status as Zlatan’s successor.
A move to Chelsea offers him the chance to step onto an even bigger stage and continue building on his growing legacy.
At Stamford Bridge, Gyökeres is expected to be a critical addition, addressing Chelsea’s urgent need for a consistent goal scorer.
His remarkable tally of 37 goals in 39 appearances during the 2024/25 campaign — despite missing time due to a hamstring injury — highlights his clinical edge.
His blend of physicality, movement, and ability to connect with teammates would complement attacking talents like Cole Palmer and Christopher Nkunku perfectly.
While Gyökeres brings enormous promise, adjusting to the Premier League’s pace and physicality will be a challenge.
The expectation levels will be sky-high, particularly given the constant comparisons to Ibrahimović.
Yet Gyökeres has already shown resilience, bouncing back from injuries and delivering big performances, suggesting he has the mentality to succeed.
If he channels even a fraction of Zlatan’s winning spirit and confidence, he could become a hero at Chelsea.
Ultimately, Viktor Gyökeres’ impending arrival at Chelsea signals more than just a marquee signing—it could be the start of a new era for the Blues.
For Gyökeres, it is a golden opportunity to forge his own legend, following the path laid out by Sweden’s greatest footballing icon.
