Pedro Goncalves has expressed relief at the conclusion of the "unnecessary" transfer drama involving Arsenal and Sporting CP over Viktor Gyokeres.

The Swedish striker's prolific contribution of 54 goals in all competitions was instrumental in Sporting clinching both the Primeira Liga and Taca de Portugal last term, sparking interest from several Premier League sides.

Despite initial speculation of a head-to-head tussle between Manchester United and Arsenal for his signature, Gyokeres made no secret of his preference for a move to the Emirates Stadium, actively pushing for a switch to the Gunners.

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The talks hit a snag when Arsenal attempted to negotiate down the £67.7million valuation of the 27-year-old, prompting Gyokeres to skip pre-season training and go on strike to expedite the transfer. He believed Sporting had reneged on a gentleman's agreement to let him join a top-tier club this summer for a previously agreed price.

Sporting CP's president Frederico Varandas remained unmoved by Gyokeres' strike, maintaining that such actions would not alter the club's position. Speaking to Lusa, Varandas said: "We're calm. Everything can be solved with the closure of the market, a hefty fine and an apology to the group.

"If they don't want to pay Viktor's fair market value, we'll be very comfortable with that for the next three years. If the geniuses who are devising this strategy think that this puts pressure on me to make it easier for him to leave, not only are they completely wrong, but they are also making it more complicated for the player to leave. No one is above the interests of the club. Whoever they are."

Arsenal eventually managed to strike a deal with Sporting CP, shelling out £63.7m to bring Gyokeres to north London on a five-year deal. And now, Goncalves has shared his feelings about his former team-mate's move, telling O Jogo: "I wasn't hurt. I wished him the best of luck. I said, 'Finally'. This whole thing wasn't necessary, in my opinion... but that's football.

"I wished him the best of luck, and he said thank you. And that's it. He had to leave, and others came."

Sporting's head coach Rui Borges also commented on the striker's transfer, sharing similar thoughts to Goncalves. He said: "I haven't spoken yet, but I may speak to thank everyone for everything.

"Hurt? No. Honestly, I wasn't hurt. That's football. It's part of football. There are arrivals and departures. We have to know how to deal with it. We have to readjust all the time. He was a very important player, not only this season.

"I wish him the best of luck in the world, he marked an era in our football. He will be missed in his own way. We will have other players. We will continue to be competitive. Players come and go, but the club remains. Others will come in and become great and better and better."

Sporting have acted swiftly in reinvesting the substantial funds from Gyokeres' departure, securing UD Almeria's Luis Suarez as they seek to guarantee a reliable striker is in place for the upcoming campaign, reports the Mirror. The Colombian made his mark in the Segunda Division last season. netting 27 times whilst providing eight assists, and supporters will be intrigued to witness his adaptation to Liga Portugal.

Discussing Sporting's latest recruit, Borges said: "I believe he will also make his mark on Sporting in some way and that he will help us to remain strong and victorious. He is different from Viktor, but I believe he will be important."

Gyokeres represents the most recent addition to Arsenal's busy summer transfer activity, joining fellow new faces Martin Zubimendi, Kepa Arrizabalaga and Noni Madueke at the club.

Nevertheless, it seems Mikel Arteta remains determined to further bolster his squad before the Premier League campaign gets underway, as the Gunners continue their pursuit of Crystal Palace's Eberechi Eze.

The attacking midfielder, who contributed eight goals and as many assists in the Premier League last season, has a £68m release clause in his contract. However, it's believed that Arsenal are attempting to negotiate a deal closer to the £60m mark.