Negotiations between Arsenal and Sporting CP regarding the transfer of Swedish striker Viktor Gyokeres are reportedly at a standstill. Initially seen as a deal close to completion, discussions have hit a significant obstacle due to disagreements over the final transfer fee. Arsenal had seemingly reached an agreement on personal terms with Gyokeres, who was prepared to sign a five-year contract. However, the clubs remain divided on the financial aspects of the transfer.
According to reports from Record, Arsenal’s offer comprised a base fee of €65 million with an additional €15 million in performance-related bonuses. This proposal aligned with Sporting’s earlier demand of €80 million. Yet, the Portuguese club is now insisting on a revised structure, requesting a flat fee of €70 million with reduced add-ons. While this discrepancy may seem minor, it has become a significant hurdle in reaching an agreement.
Arsenal’s transfer team traveled to Lisbon with hopes of finalizing the deal but has returned to London without a contract in hand. Sources familiar with the discussions indicate that Arsenal may withdraw from the negotiations unless Sporting adjusts its stance. Each passing day adds pressure to both clubs, with Arsenal’s patience reportedly waning.
Gyokeres has expressed a strong desire to join Arsenal, even offering to sacrifice €2 million of his future salary to facilitate the transfer. His commitment to the move is further underscored by his recent decision to skip training with Sporting, citing disappointment over the club’s sudden change in position regarding the transfer fee.
In a potential twist, there are suggestions that Gyokeres could be considering a loan move to Fenerbahce, with José Mourinho reportedly interested in acquiring him should Arsenal exit the race. Gyokeres had an impressive season, scoring 54 goals, and was viewed as a crucial addition to manager Mikel Arteta‘s attacking lineup.
As the transfer saga unfolds, both clubs face a critical juncture. If negotiations fail to resume soon, it may signal the end of what has become one of the summer’s most drawn-out transfer stories. The coming days will be pivotal in determining whether Gyokeres dons the Arsenal jersey or seeks opportunities elsewhere.
