Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta
Image credit: Getty Images
Arsenal are reportedly preparing to walk away from their pursuit of Benjamin Šeško as they close in on the signing of Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyökeres in what is shaping up to be a defining move in their summer transfer window.
According to reports, the Gunners made a significant breakthrough over the weekend, with a club delegation led by sporting director Andrea Berta, travelling to Lisbon to finalise negotiations. An agreement is now believed to be in place for an initial €65 million fee, putting Gyökeres on the brink of sealing a switch to the Emirates.
Šeško, who appeared to be Mikel Arteta’s top striker target at the beginning of the summer, had previously come close to joining Arsenal last year. However, RB Leipzig’s firm €90 million asking price, coupled with complicated personal terms, led to growing frustration within the Arsenal camp.
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Arteta is keen to have a new centre-forward in place before the start of pre-season, a factor that has reportedly accelerated the push for Gyökeres. According toThe Athletic, Arsenal did explore the possibility of negotiating Leipzig’s price down but were ultimately unconvinced by the signals from Germany.
Benjamin Sesko
Benjamin Sesko (Image credit: Getty Images)
With Gyökeres now within touching distance, Arsenal are set to drop their interest in Šeško and focus on wrapping up their summer business elsewhere.
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The Gunners have already been active in the transfer market, securing the signings of Martin Zubimendi and Kepa Arrizabalaga. Brentford captain Christian Nørgaard is expected to be the next through the door, having completed his medical ahead of a £30 million move to replace the departed Thomas Partey and Jorginho in midfield.
Arteta also remains intent on bolstering his attacking options, with a new wide forward among his key priorities. Arsenal have reportedly agreed personal terms with Chelsea’s Noni Madueke, who could be available for around £50 million.
In addition to Madueke, Arsenal continue to monitor Real Madrid’s Rodrygo and Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze as they aim to further strengthen their frontline ahead of the new campaign.
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