Arsenal Sets Deadline for Viktor Gyokeres Deal in £60-85 Million Transfer Race
Arteta Pushes to Secure Gyokeres Amidst Rising Transfer Stakes
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has made it clear that the club is urgently pursuing the signing of Sporting CP’s prolific striker Viktor Gyokeres, setting a firm deadline of July 19 for the deal to be completed. The 26-year-old forward has emerged as a top transfer target for the Gunners, who are desperate to bolster their attacking options ahead of the new Premier League season.
Gyokeres, who scored an impressive 54 goals in all competitions last season for the Portuguese champions Sporting CP, has attracted significant interest not only from Arsenal but also from Manchester United. Despite competing offers, it is Arteta’s convincing vision for Gyokeres’ role at Arsenal and the promise of Champions League football that appear to have swayed the player’s preference towards the London club.
Transfer Fee Tug-of-War: Negotiations at a Crucial Stage
The transfer saga is complicated by Sporting’s valuation of their star striker. While an understanding reportedly exists that Gyokeres could leave for a fee of €60 million plus €10 million in add-ons, Sporting CP’s management is holding out for a higher figure, potentially pushing the total towards £85 million. Arsenal, on the other hand, remain firm in their stance not to exceed a budget in the £60 million to £70 million range, creating a significant gap between buyer and seller expectations.
Arsenal’s sporting director, Andrea Berta, has been actively involved in the negotiations, having made several trips to Lisbon to engage with both Sporting and Gyokeres’ representatives. This high-level attention underscores the importance Arsenal is placing on concluding the deal swiftly to integrate the striker into their pre-season preparations.
Gyokeres’ Impact at Sporting CP and Potential Role at Arsenal
Viktor Gyokeres’ goal-scoring record last season was among the best in Europe, playing a vital role in Sporting CP retaining the Portuguese league title. His versatility, clinical finishing, and work rate have made him a sought-after talent. Arteta sees Gyokeres as a central figure in Arsenal’s attacking future, promising him a pivotal role that matches the striker’s ambitions.
Arsenal supporters, long yearning for a reliable goal scorer, will find renewed hope in this transfer pursuit. With Gyokeres’ blend of youth and experience, combined with Arteta’s tactical approach, the Gunners aim to significantly enhance their front line and challenge more vigorously for domestic and European honors.
Competition from Manchester United and Other Clubs
While Manchester United have shown interest in Gyokeres, reports indicate that the player’s discussions with Arteta and the Gunners’ clear project have tipped the scales. The promise of Champions League football and a concrete plan for his development make Arsenal an attractive destination, despite possibly more lucrative financial offers elsewhere.
Other potential targets for Arsenal’s striking needs include RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko and Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins, but Gyokeres currently leads the race as the preferred choice according to insiders.
What Happens Next?
Mikel Arteta and his squad are set to begin their pre-season tour in Southeast Asia shortly after July 19. The looming deadline for finalizing Gyokeres’ transfer is therefore critical, as the striker’s early involvement in training and tactical sessions is seen as essential for a smooth integration.
A successful signing would represent a significant coup for Arsenal, demonstrating the club’s ambition and ability to compete in the heated summer transfer market.
Sources
- Football365
- TeamTalk
- ESPN
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the transfer fee Arsenal is willing to pay for Viktor Gyokeres?
Arsenal is reported to be willing to pay around £60 million, potentially with an additional €10 million in add-ons, but Sporting CP is seeking a higher fee closer to £85 million.
Why is Viktor Gyokeres interested in joining Arsenal over Manchester United?
Gyokeres has been convinced by Mikel Arteta’s vision for his role at Arsenal and the opportunity to compete in the Champions League, which outweighed more financially lucrative offers from other clubs including Manchester United.
How many goals did Gyokeres score last season?
Viktor Gyokeres scored an impressive 54 goals in all competitions for Sporting CP during the last season.
What deadline has Arsenal set for the completion of the Gyokeres deal?
Arsenal has set a deadline of July 19 to finalize the transfer deal for Viktor Gyokeres.
What impact is Gyokeres expected to have at Arsenal?
Gyokeres is expected to be a central figure in Arsenal’s attack, enhancing their goal-scoring capabilities and helping the club compete more strongly in the Premier League and Champions League.
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