Arsenal’s efforts to sign Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres have taken a dramatic turn, despite the player’s strong desire to join the club.The 27-year-old Swede, who scored 54 goals in 52 games last season, has been linked with several top clubs — including Manchester United and PSG — but Arsenal are leading the race. A deal worth around €80m (£69m) is in progress, which would make him Sweden’s most expensive player ever.
According to David Ornstein, talks between Arsenal and Sporting are advanced, but the fee remains a sticking point. Personal terms are not an issue, as Gyokeres is eager to join. Fabrizio Romano even reported that Gyokeres has offered to give up €2m from his salary to help push the deal through.
However, Portuguese outlet Record reports that the striker is “prepared for the worst” if negotiations fall apart. He reportedly refuses to return to Sporting and may even push for a loan exit if the move collapses.
“If talks break down, Gyokeres plans to take the conflict to new levels,” the report states.
He is due to return to training on July 11, ahead of Sporting’s pre-season camp in the Algarve.
Arsenal have already signed Martin Zubimendi for £51m and Kepa Arrizabalaga, with targets like Christian Norgaard and Cristhian Mosquera still on their radar.
The Gyokeres deal remains a top priority — but it’s not done yet.
