Arsenal’s highly anticipated move for Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres is in jeopardy after recent negotiations between the clubs reached a standstill, according to reports from Portugal.
The Gunners had seemingly beaten Manchester United to the signing of the prolific 27-year-old, with a deal reportedly set at €70 million (£60.8m) plus €10 million (£6.95m) in add-ons. A medical was even being prepared. However, Portuguese outlet Record now claims talks have stalled over disagreements regarding the bonus payments.
Sporting insist the €10 million add-on should be based on easily achievable targets, while Arsenal are pushing back on that condition. This funding dispute has put the entire deal at risk of a complete collapse.
Although Gyokeres has expressed his desire to join Arsenal, even threatening to strike to force the move, Sporting remain firm. Club president Frederico Varandas warned that any pressure tactics would only complicate the transfer, stating:
“No one is above the interests of the club. If they don’t want to pay Viktor’s fair market value, we are comfortable keeping him for the next three years.”
Gyokeres, who scored a remarkable 97 goals in 102 games for Sporting, has told friends and family he expects to join Arsenal, returning to England after a previous spell with Coventry City. His current contract runs until 2028.
Meanwhile, Arsenal have already signed Martin Zubimendi, Christian Norgaard, and Kepa Arrizabalaga, with a £50m deal for Chelsea’s Noni Madueke also agreed. The Gunners remain keen on Eberechi Eze, though Bayern Munich are also in the race following Jamal Musiala’s injury.
Despite the current setback, reports suggest ‘all scenarios are still open’, and a direct intervention from Gyokeres or his representatives may still salvage the deal.
