Police are investigating a potential gun-related plot connected to Arsenal's acquisition of Viktor Gyokeres for £64 million, following a double shooting at the residence of the agent's relative.
In a surprising turn of events, Swedish police are investigating a potential link between a shooting incident and Arsenal's recent £64 million signing of striker Viktor Gyokeres.
The shooting, which took place in Huddinge near Stockholm, did not result in any injuries. However, the relative of an agent connected to the transfer deal was the target of the incident. Reports suggest that the relative boasted about receiving a portion of the signing fee, potentially leading to demands for money and an alleged blackmail attempt.
Frederico Varandas, president at Sporting Lisbon, publicly rejected any blackmail attempts influencing the transfer. He stated that the club would not accept such behaviour. An agent connected to Gyokeres’ move described the football industry as vulnerable, confirming that such incidents can happen, but denied any personal involvement with the shooting itself.
Per Engström, section chief at the Swedish police's operational department, stated that criminals have targeted football agencies in recent years due to the large sums of money they handle. He added that young people are increasingly being used as perpetrators in blackmail and intimidation attempts.
As of mid-August 2025, the investigations are ongoing, but no conclusive public statements regarding suspects or outcomes have emerged yet. The unfolding police inquiry in Sweden remains the main source for updated information.
This development comes after Gyokeres failed to report back at Sporting for pre-season earlier this month, causing speculation about his future. Before signing his five-year Arsenal deal, there were links to Manchester United, making the transfer a high-profile move in the football industry.
Despite the off-field disturbances, the transfer concluded a long-running saga, marking a new chapter in Gyokeres' career. The football world awaits the outcome of the ongoing investigation, hoping for a resolution and a return to the usual focus on the beautiful game.
European-leagues, particularly the Premier League, have been drawn into the ongoing investigation following Arsenal's high-profile signing of striker Viktor Gyokeres. The shooting incident in Huddinge, Sweden, which revolves around a blackmail attempt related to Gyokeres' transfer fee, has raised concerns about the vulnerable nature of the football industry.
