Arsenal have spent the summer searching for a new striker and have made Gyokeres their number one target. ..Continue Reading
Following a drawn-out dispute between Gyokeres and Sporting CP regarding a verbal agreement, reports last week suggested the two clubs had settled on a £55 million base fee.
Yet, the transfer hasn’t been sealed, with talks still ongoing over the bonus structure, which has left room for other clubs to make a move.
Portuguese outlet SIC Noticias claims Manchester United have entered negotiations and are prepared to match Arsenal’s offer for the Swedish forward.
However, British reporters have downplayed the idea of United hijacking the deal, maintaining that Gyokeres is still on course to join Arsenal.
Writing for TBR Football, Graeme Bailey said: “Arsenal are so far down the line with Viktor Gyökeres, it really is just the finer details — this time last week they thought it was done & could not imagine it running to this weekend.”
“Arsenal are staying calm, I need to emphasise that, they admit some deals are just easier than others.
“In terms of the player, I am told Gyökeres himself is frustrated, he wants to be with Arsenal now, he just wants to be with his new team-mates.”
Arsenal’s squad has already touched down in Asia as they gear up for their pre-season fixtures in Singapore and Hong Kong.
During his opening media briefing, Mikel Arteta was questioned about the club’s efforts to sign Viktor Gyokeres.
He responded by saying he couldn’t speak about a player who hasn’t officially joined the team.
So far, the Gunners have splashed over £123 million to bring in Martin Zubimendi, Kepa Arrizabalaga, Christian Norgaard, and Noni Madueke.
In addition to their pursuit of Gyokeres, they’re also on the verge of landing promising Valencia defender Cristhian Mosquera.
Arteta, however, didn’t close the door on further signings beyond those two targets.
“There’s still a long time in the window and we are seeking still,” said Arteta.
“In terms of numbers, we are short and we have to improve the depth and quality of the squad.
“We are constantly looking in the market. “Until that happens, we focus on the players we have and I’m very pleased with what I have seen in the last 10 to 15 days.”
