Arsenal edge closer to signing Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyökeres as a verbal agreement nears completion amid rising transfer tensions.
Arsenal are reportedly closing in on a major summer signing, as they near a verbal agreement with prolific Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyökeres. The Swedish international, who netted a jaw-dropping 54 goals in 52 appearances last season, has become one of Europe’s most coveted forwards. Despite competition from clubs like Manchester United, Liverpool and Juventus, sources suggest Arsenal are now at the front of the queue.
The Gunners’ recruitment team, led by sporting director Andrea Berta, is believed to be negotiating a fee in the region of €70 million, significantly under Gyökeres’ reported €100 million release clause. According to L’Equipe talks with Gyökeres’ representative Hasan Cetinkaya are at an advanced stage, with the player showing clear preference for a move to the Emirates Stadium.
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Adding intrigue to the negotiations is a contract clause that came into effect on July 1st, compelling Sporting to either accept offers over €60 million or pay the agent a penalty for rejecting them. Arsenal appear to be leveraging this clause to strengthen their hand in the transfer discussions.
Tensions are mounting between Gyökeres and Sporting’s hierarchy. The striker believes he was promised a move this summer for a reasonable price and is reportedly considering boycotting pre-season training to pressurize the club. Sporting president Frederico Varandas, however, insists the club won’t be forced into a sale: “Viktor will not leave for €60+10m. Absolutely not,” he declared.
This move is part of a broader summer strategy for Arsenal, who are also targeting French wonderkid Maghnes Akliouche. As Mikel Arteta looks to recharge his squad after a frustrating campaign, landing Viktor Gyökeres could be a marquee moment—giving the Gunners the lethal edge they’ve long craved up front.
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