Arsenal is intensifying its pursuit of Sporting Lisbon striker Viktor Gyokeres, with discussions reportedly reaching an advanced stage. The Portuguese club is seeking a fixed fee of £60.4 million (€70 million) for the 27-year-old player, along with an additional £8.6 million (€10 million) in performance-related add-ons.
Although an agreement between the two clubs remains pending, there seems to be a strong willingness from all sides to finalize the deal, especially considering Gyokeres’ eagerness to join the Gunners. Personal terms do not appear to be a hurdle, suggesting optimism that an agreement can be reached soon.
In a notable development, Sporting has granted Gyokeres permission to postpone his return to pre-season training from Monday until Friday, reflecting the ongoing negotiations with Arsenal. The club’s strategic focus on securing a new striker this transfer window dovetails with previous interest in players such as Benjamin Sesko of RB Leipzig.
Gyokeres’ stock has soared since he joined Sporting from Coventry City for around £20 million, having scored an impressive 97 goals in 102 matches across two seasons. His remarkable feat of 54 goals in 52 games during the last campaign included standout performances, such as a hat-trick against Manchester City in the Champions League, contributing to Sporting’s league victory and Portuguese Cup success.
Prior to this, there were indications that clubs like Manchester United had shown interest in Gyokeres, with initial approaches made. However, Sporting’s president, Frederico Varandas, dismissed claims of a release clause applicable to Gyokeres, thereby solidifying the club’s stance on retaining their star striker until a satisfactory offer is made.
Gyokeres, who previously played for Brighton and experienced loan spells at St. Pauli and Swansea, is now on the verge of a return to English football. His trajectory reflects a significant rise, having nearly tripled in value over two years due to his exceptional performance.
Arsenal’s current acquisition of midfielder Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad and potential further signings underscores their ambition to bolster both the midfield and the attacking front for the upcoming season, aiming to compete at the highest level in the Premier League. As the Gunners look to execute a successful transfer window, the prospect of Gyokeres joining the team brings an exciting dimension to their future ambitions.