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Arsenal’s pursuit of Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyökeres has entered a decisive phase, with the Portuguese club granting the prolific forward permission to delay his return to pre-season training amid advanced transfer talks.
According to Hand of Arsenal, the 27-year-old Swedish international who has made clear his desire to join the Gunners is now on the brink of a move to the Emirates, as negotiations between the two clubs intensify.
Gyökeres, who enjoyed a sensational 2024/25 campaign with 54 goals and 13 assists in 52 appearances for Sporting, has emerged as a top target for Mikel Arteta’s side. Arsenal, having finished as Premier League runners-up for a third consecutive season and exited the Champions League in the semi-finals, see the former Coventry City striker as the clinical finisher needed to push them over the line in their pursuit of major honours.
Sporting’s decision to allow Gyökeres to postpone his scheduled return to training from Monday, July 7 to Friday is being interpreted as a strong sign that a deal is nearing completion. Sources close to the player, including transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, report that Gyökeres has informed Sporting that he only wants a move to Arsenal and is refusing to report back to training until the transfer is finalised.
Sources close to Viktor Gyökeres tell me he is desperate to finalise a deal to Arsenal rapidly. Sporting have given the Swede permission to delay his pre-season.
Talks ongoing with Sporting Lisbon at the time of reporting as Arsenal attempt to secure a fee under €80m.
— HandöfArsenal (@HandofArsenal) July 6, 2025
Arsenal are believed to have agreed personal terms with the striker on a five-year deal worth approximately £10 million per year, including performance-based bonuses. The two clubs are now negotiating the final details of the transfer fee.
While Sporting president Frederico Varandas has maintained that the striker will not leave for less than his €80 million (£69 million) release clause, Portuguese outlet A Bola claims the club may be willing to accept a deal comprising a €70 million base fee plus €10 million in add-ons, consistent with a prior gentleman’s agreement. Arsenal’s opening offer of £65 million was rejected, but sporting director Andrea Berta is reportedly confident of reaching an agreement.
Arsenal target Viktor Gyokeres
Arsenal target Viktor Gyokeres
Tensions have reportedly escalated behind the scenes, with Gyökeres said to be frustrated by Sporting’s reluctance to honour the earlier agreement. The striker has reportedly refused to engage in clear-the-air talks with the club and has even threatened to go on strike to force the move.
If completed, Gyökeres would become Arsenal’s fourth signing of the summer. The Gunners have already secured goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga from Chelsea, midfielder Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad for £51 million, and Brentford captain Christian Norgaard is also expected to arrive for £15 million.
Gyökeres, who has scored 97 goals in 102 matches since joining Sporting in 2023, would represent a statement addition for Arsenal as they look to finally end their 22-year wait for a Premier League title.