Arsenal is keen on signing Sporting Lisbon’s prolific striker, Viktor Gyokeres, but the Portuguese club is driving a hard bargain.
Sporting Lisbon’s president has informed Arsenal that they are willing to sell Gyokeres for £60 million, but only if Arsenal meets his £85 million release clause.
Arsenal’s Sporting Director is eager to secure the services of the 26-year-old Swedish international, who netted an impressive 43 goals last season.
However, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is not pleased with the condition attached to the deal.
The Gunners had initially targeted RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko, but his recent contract extension forced them to explore alternative options.
Gyokeres fits perfectly into Arteta’s plans to strengthen Arsenal’s attack, but the £85 million price tag is a significant hurdle.
Sporting Lisbon is looking to raise funds this summer but prefers to sell other players, including defenders Ousmane Diomande and Goncalo Inacio, both linked with Arsenal.
Diomande is valued at £50 million, while Inacio has a £52 million release clause.
Despite this, Arsenal’s primary focus is on acquiring another attacker, and they hope Sporting Lisbon will reconsider their demands for Gyokeres.
Gyokeres had an exceptional season, scoring 43 goals and providing 15 assists in 50 matches across all competitions.
His contributions were pivotal in Sporting winning the Primeira Liga, where he emerged as the top scorer with 29 goals.
Arsenal believes his attributes can significantly enhance their offensive prowess, but the price tag remains a sticking point.
The negotiations highlight the challenges clubs face in the transfer market, where prices can be inflated, and conditions can be attached.
Arsenal must weigh the benefits of signing Gyokeres against the cost, considering their budget and priorities.
The outcome will depend on Sporting Lisbon’s willingness to compromise and Arsenal’s determination to secure the services of a proven goalscorer.
