Manchester United transfer news as Viktor Gyokeres' move to Arsenal takes the next step
Viktor Gyokeres.
Viktor Gyokeres is closing in on a move to Arsenal(Image: Photo by Gualter Fatia/Getty Images)
Manchester United look set to miss out on Viktor Gyokeres this summer following news that Arsenal have finally reached an agreement with Sporting CP.
Gyokeres has been one of the strikers tipped to join United this summer due to his connection with Ruben Amorim. The Reds boss signed the Swede from Coventry City in 2023 and he has become one of Europe's most prolific goalscorers.
In two seasons in Portugal, the 27-year-old has scored 97 goals in 102 appearances. However, United haven't been alone in the race to sign him and it now looks like Arsenal will bolster their centre-forward ranks.
The Gunners have been heavily linked with the striker for some time and their interest dates back further than United's. Mikel Arteta is desperate to strengthen his attack after the lack of a centre-forward played a big part in his side missing out on the Premier League title.
After agreeing a five-year contract with Gyokeres and his camp, the north Londoners now look to have finally agreed a deal with Sporting CP to get their man. The Athletic have reported that Arsenal are now taking the final steps in negotiations with the Portuguese champions and are processing to get the deal done.
Up until now, talks have been delayed by Sporting's president Frederico Varandas seemingly refusing to see out the gentleman's agreement to allow him to depart for around £59million.
Now, the Premier League side have made 'formal advances' over terms to close the deal. It's said negotiations were reignited earlier this weekend and the communication between the two parties has improved.
The deal will leave United at square one in their bid to sign a centre-forward. With Gyokeres moving to the Emirates Stadium and Victor Osimhen the subject of strong interest from Galatasaray, Amorim is faced with the reality of exploring alternatives.
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