DEAL COMPLETED: Arsenal announce the signing of £80m striker who bagged 43goals in 50 appearances last season – Medical date fixed already – Here we go
Arsenal’s pursuit of Viktor Gyokeres, the 26-year-old striker from Sporting Lisbon, has encountered a significant hurdle as the Portuguese club demands £85 million for his transfer. Despite Arsenal’s initial offer of £60 million, Sporting Lisbon’s firm stance on the higher fee remains unchanged. The negotiations have highlighted Gyokeres’ impressive performance during the 2023-24 season, where he amassed 43 goals and 15 assists across 50 appearances, pivotal to Sporting’s Primeira Liga triumph.
Mikel Arteta, Arsenal’s manager, has identified Gyokeres as a critical addition to bolster the team’s attacking prowess. Initially, Arsenal had targeted Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig, prepared to activate his £55 million release clause. However, Sesko’s recent contract extension redirected Arsenal’s focus to Gyokeres, whom they have monitored closely over the past year.
Despite Gyokeres’ potential to complement Arsenal’s squad, the £85 million valuation set by Sporting Lisbon poses a financial challenge for the Gunners. This dilemma arises as Arsenal navigates their summer transfer plans, aiming to strengthen their attacking options for upcoming competitions.
Sporting Lisbon, keen to generate funds this summer, has indicated a preference to offload other players such as defenders Ousmane Diomande and Goncalo Inacio. Diomande holds a £50 million valuation, while Inacio’s release clause stands at £52 million. Arsenal has expressed interest in both players, linking them to a potential move to North London. However, the club’s primary focus remains on resolving the negotiations surrounding Gyokeres.
Arteta’s strategic vision for Arsenal includes refining the team’s offensive capabilities, with Gyokeres fitting into his tactical framework as a natural goalscorer. Despite initial discontent from Arsenal’s management regarding Sporting Lisbon’s demands, negotiations continue with hopes of finding a middle ground acceptable to both clubs.
In conclusion, Arsenal’s pursuit of Viktor Gyokeres underscores their commitment to strengthening the squad ahead of the new season. While financial terms remain a sticking point, Arsenal’s persistence reflects their determination to secure the talents necessary for competing at the highest level in domestic and European football.
