Viktor Gyokeres’ move to Arsenal may not be completely done and dusted, with a bombshell report in Portugal claiming there is still a major hurdle to overcome
After finishing as runners-up for three consecutive seasons, Arsenal have identified Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres as their primary target to boost their attacking options and improve their goal tally.
Gyokeres, who has an impressive record of 97 goals in 102 appearances for Sporting, fits Arsenal’s needs perfectly. The Swedish forward has informed the Portuguese club of his desire to leave in search of a new challenge.
The transfer saga has been a major storyline this summer, with tensions growing between Gyokeres and Sporting. The striker has even refused to train as discussions between the two clubs continue in a drawn-out negotiation process.
Personal terms with Gyokeres were never an obstacle, and a deal worth €70 million — including €10 million in add-ons — appeared to be close to completion.
What’s the current status of Gyokeres to Arsenal?
Despite earlier progress, Record now reports that talks have stalled. The two clubs are reportedly at a “dead end,” and the entire deal is now “at risk of falling through completely.”
The main obstacle in the deal appears to be the bonuses, as Arsenal are hesitant to agree to Sporting’s demand for easily attainable add-ons.
According to A Bola, another Portuguese outlet, Sporting believes only €3 million of the proposed bonuses are realistically achievable and have therefore rejected the current offer.
David Ornstein provides update on Gyokeres to Arsenal
Although Viktor Gyokeres’ agent, Hasan Cetinkaya, has waived his commission to help facilitate the transfer, the deal remains uncertain. David Ornstein of The Athletic offered an update during Sky Sports News’ Back Pages segment.
He stated:
“They still need to finalize the structure of the add-ons. Reports from Portugal indicate that Sporting president Frederico Varandas is seeking nearly guaranteed, fixed bonuses, while Arsenal may have a different interpretation of how those targets should be met.
“This is common in the final stages of negotiations and things can get a bit tense. Arsenal are in a strong position and are working to complete the deal. It’s not finalized yet, but they’re optimistic about securing Gyokeres in time for their pre-season tour.”
If the deal goes through, Gyokeres would become Arsenal’s fourth summer signing, following the arrivals of Martin Zubimendi, Christian Norgaard, and Kepa Arrizabalaga.
