Arsenal has reportedly made a proposal that aligns with Sporting CP’s asking price for striker Viktor Gyokeres, sparking a swift reaction from the Portuguese club’s vice-president, Francisco Salgado Zenha. Gyokeres, who has emerged as one of the top targets for Arsenal in their quest for a new forward, may be attainable for between €65 million and €70 million, thanks to an informal agreement made last summer.
This agreement allows Gyokeres to leave Sporting for a fee substantially lower than his €100 million release clause, provided he remains with the team until the end of the 2024/25 season. His decision to stay has paid dividends, as Gyokeres has played a pivotal role in helping Sporting clinch a league and cup double this season.
Amid discussions, it was revealed that Arsenal is targeting both Gyokeres and RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko after missing out on Mikel Arteta’s initial choice, Alexander Isak, who will remain at Newcastle due to their recent Champions League qualification. Reports indicate that Arsenal has made a substantial offer, including a transfer fee and lucrative personal terms for Gyokeres, which consists of a €12 million signing bonus and an annual salary of €7 million over a five-year contract.
However, Zenha has stated that he is unaware of any such offer and emphasized the club’s intention to retain their talented players. He mentioned, “He has three more years on his contract. At the moment, there are no offers,” reinforcing Sporting’s commitment to keep their stars, especially following their championship success.
In addition to the Gyokeres saga, Arsenal is also reportedly finalizing a medical for Martin Zubimendi, confirming personal terms with the midfielder who is expected to join for a fee of approximately £51 million through his release clause.
Despite the competitive landscape and the challenges of retaining key players, Sporting’s successful season may empower them to hold onto Gyokeres a bit longer. This move indicates a strategy focused on maintaining a strong squad capable of competing at the highest levels, echoing the sentiment that championships can foster stability and talent retention in football clubs.