Arsenal - Viktor Gyökeres
Image credit: Getty Images
Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyökeres has intensified speculation over a potential summer switch to Arsenal after publicly expressing his desire to return to the Premier League. In an interview with France Football, the prolific Swedish international said he would only move to a club that “really wants me,” with the Gunners now firmly in pole position to secure his signature.
The 27-year-old, who has netted a remarkable 97 goals in 102 appearances since joining Sporting from Coventry City in 2023, is said to have already agreed personal terms with Arsenal on a proposed five-year deal. Talks between the clubs are ongoing, with Mikel Arteta eager to bring in a proven goalscorer ahead of the 2025/26 season.
Gyökeres enjoyed a sensational 2024/25 campaign, scoring 54 goals in 52 matches across all competitions, including a memorable hat-trick against Manchester City in the Champions League. His efforts helped Sporting lift a domestic double, the Primeira Liga and Taça de Portugal and caught the attention of Europe’s top clubs. Despite interest from Manchester United, Gyökeres is understood to favour a move to the Emirates Stadium.
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“The Premier League is where I want to be again, but it has to be the right project,” Gyökeres toldFrance Football. “I want to join a club who really wants me, where I can make a difference and feel valued.” Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta has led the charge, travelling to Lisbon for direct negotiations with Sporting president Frederico Varandas.
However, talks have hit a stumbling block over the transfer fee. Sporting are demanding €70 million (£60.4 million) guaranteed, plus €10 million in add-ons. Arsenal’s latest offer stands at €65 million plus €15 million in bonuses, matching Sporting’s total valuation but falling short in structure. Tensions have escalated, with The Athletic reporting that Gyökeres has refused to report for pre-season training after believing the club backtracked on a verbal agreement to allow his departure for €65–70 million.
Arsenal target Viktor Gyokeres
Viktor Gyökeres (Image credit: Getty Images)
Gyökeres’ standoff adds urgency to the situation, with Arsenal aiming to finalise the deal before their pre-season tour to Singapore begins on July 19. The Gunners’ interest in Gyökeres became more focused after negotiations for RB Leipzig forward Benjamin Šeško stalled due to a €10 million gap in valuation.
Fabrizio Romano has consistently reported Gyökeres’ firm commitment to the move, stating, “Viktor Gyökeres doesn’t open doors to any other solution, only Arsenal.” The striker’s physical presence, direct running, and lethal finishing, underscored by a league-high 85 sprints in behind last season have made him a top priority for Arteta, whose side struggled for goals at times last season due to injuries to Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz.
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Arsenal, who finished second in the Premier League last term, have already made moves to strengthen the squad. Kepa Arrizabalaga arrived from Chelsea for £5 million, midfield anchor Martin Zubimendi joined from Real Sociedad in a £51 million deal, and Brentford captain Christian Nørgaard signed for up to £12 million. The North London club are also pursuing Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze and Chelsea’s Noni Madueke to further reinforce their attacking options.
Eze, in particular, appears close to a switch, having been left out of Palace’s 2025/26 kit launch, an omission widely interpreted as a sign of an impending exit. Talks are said to be progressing, with Arteta keen to add the versatile England international to his ranks.
Gyökeres’ arrival would mark a statement signing for Arsenal as they look to mount a serious title challenge and close the gap on champions Liverpool, who scored 17 more goals last season. While a deal has yet to be struck, the striker’s clear desire, Arsenal’s growing urgency, and Sporting’s tough stance set the stage for a high-stakes conclusion in the coming days.
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