Arsenal’s negotiating team, led by sporting director Andrea Berta, spent two days in Lisbon trying to finalize terms with Sporting officials, having already reached a personal agreement with Gyökeres and his representatives. ..Continue Reading
According to Record, the two sides are still €5 million apart—Arsenal have tabled a deal worth €65 million plus €15 million in performance-related bonuses, while Sporting insist on receiving €70 million upfront and are refusing to compromise.
The report also notes that Arsenal’s delegation has now returned to London, with the coming hours expected to determine whether the transfer will be salvaged or fall apart entirely.
Meanwhile, Arsenal have officially announced the arrival of Gabriel Heinze as their new first-team coach, with the former Manchester United defender joining Mikel Arteta’s backroom staff.
The Argentine has already begun working with the squad as they gear up for the 2025/26 season, aiming to finally end their 20-year wait for a Premier League title.
“We are delighted to announce the appointment of Gabriel Heinze to our coaching staff as men’s first team coach,” Arsenal said in a statement.
“Heinze, a former Argentina international, brings a wealth of playing and coaching experience to the club. We are excited with the introduction of Gabriel to our men’s first-team coaching staff, and welcome him and his family to Arsenal.”
Arsenal have resumed pre-season training and lined up five friendly matches, starting with clashes against AC Milan and Newcastle United in Singapore, followed by a showdown with Tottenham Hotspur in Hong Kong later this month.
They’ll return to north London to host Villarreal and Athletic Club at the Emirates Stadium on August 6 and 9, with the latter fixture serving as the 2025 edition of the Emirates Cup.
Mikel Arteta has already added Kepa Arrizabalaga and Martin Zubimendi to his squad, and negotiations with Sporting CP over striker Viktor Gyökeres are still ongoing, with both sides working to finalize terms.
Brentford skipper Christian Nørgaard is expected to be unveiled soon as Arsenal’s third summer signing, while speculation continues around a potential blockbuster move for Real Madrid forward Rodrygo, who has reportedly been made available for transfer.
