Arsenal’s quest to secure Sporting Lisbon’s prolific striker Viktor Gyokeres has hit a significant snag, according to recent reports. The Gunners, who have been on the hunt for a top-tier forward, are facing unexpected hurdles in their pursuit of the Swedish sensation.
Gyokeres, 27, has risen to the top of Arsenal’s wishlist after the club’s initial targets, Benjamin Sesko and Ollie Watkins, slipped from their grasp. The appointment of new sporting director Andrea Berta appears to have shifted the strategy, with the Gunners now focusing all their efforts on landing the Sporting star.
The striker has been nothing short of sensational in Portugal, netting an astonishing 97 goals in just 102 appearances across all competitions. Second only to Europe’s elite scorers this season, Gyokeres is now eyeing a return to the Premier League, with Arsenal his preferred destination.
However, the North London club’s pursuit is proving anything but straightforward. Sporting Lisbon has backtracked on a previously reported gentleman’s agreement, now demanding a higher fee for their prized asset. Despite Gyokeres’ willingness to sacrifice millions to facilitate the move, negotiations have stalled over financial terms.
As per The Independent, Arsenal’s current offer stands at €65 million upfront, with add-ons potentially pushing the deal to €80 million. However, Sporting are adamant about securing a guaranteed €70 million, unwilling to entertain performance-based incentives.
Despite the impasse, there’s a glimmer of hope for Arsenal. Reports suggest that Gyokeres’ desire to leave has created tension at Sporting, making it increasingly difficult for the Portuguese side to hold onto their star. This ‘significant difference’ could tilt the scales in Arsenal’s favor as the summer transfer window progresses.
“The situation mirrors Arsenal’s earlier pursuit of Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko, where neither club budged. However, Gyokeres’ camp’s determination to leave adds a new dynamic, making it harder for Sporting to retain him.”
If the deal materializes, Gyokeres could be the missing piece in Arsenal’s attacking puzzle. While The Athletic’s David Ornstein cautions that his goal-scoring “volume” might dip in the Premier League, he believes a contribution of 15-20 goals could still be transformative for the Gunners.
“Though his numbers may not reach the same heights as in Portugal, a consistent 15-20 goal output could be exactly what Arsenal need to elevate their attack,” Ornstein remarked.
As the transfer saga unfolds, Arsenal fans will be eagerly watching to see if their club can finally land their marquee striker. For now, the Gunners must navigate the complexities of negotiation to secure Gyokeres’ signature.
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