Arsenal Close in on Viktor Gyökeres Transfer as Negotiations with Sporting CP Intensify
Arsenal’s pursuit of Sporting CP’s star striker Viktor Gyökeres has taken a significant step forward, with fresh contacts between the clubs on Sunday, July 13, 2025, bringing a potential deal closer to fruition. Despite earlier reports suggesting negotiations had stalled, sources confirm that talks have remained active, fueled by Gyökeres’ unwavering desire to join the Gunners. Arsenal are now prepared to meet Sporting’s financial demands, offering a package of €70 million upfront plus €10 million in performance-related add-ons, signaling their determination to secure the Swedish international’s signature.
Gyökeres, 27, has been a top target for Arsenal throughout the summer transfer window, with his prolific goal-scoring record in Portugal making him one of Europe’s most sought-after forwards. The former Coventry City star netted 29 goals and provided 10 assists in 33 Primeira Liga matches last season, earning widespread praise for his clinical finishing, physicality, and versatility. His performances have also attracted interest from other European giants, but Gyökeres has made it clear that Arsenal is his preferred destination, reportedly refusing to entertain other offers.
Negotiations between Arsenal and Sporting have been complex, with the Portuguese club initially holding firm on their €80 million valuation, including add-ons. Arsenal’s earlier bids, believed to be in the €60-65 million range, were rebuffed, but the latest round of talks has seen the Premier League side bridge the gap. The proposed €70 million base fee, combined with €10 million in achievable add-ons, is said to align closely with Sporting’s expectations, paving the way for a potential agreement in the coming days.
Tensions surrounding the transfer escalated recently, with reports indicating that Gyökeres was unwilling to return to Sporting’s pre-season training as he pushed for a resolution. This stance appears to have accelerated discussions, with Arsenal now prioritizing the deal to bolster their attacking options ahead of the 2025/26 Premier League season. Manager Mikel Arteta is reportedly a huge admirer of Gyökeres, viewing him as the ideal complement to Arsenal’s dynamic attacking unit, which already includes the likes of Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, and Kai Havertz.
The timing of the deal is critical for Arsenal, who are preparing for their pre-season tour of Asia. The club is keen to finalize major signings before the tour begins, allowing new additions to integrate with the squad during pre-season preparations. While no agreement has been formally signed, sources close to the negotiations express optimism that a breakthrough is imminent, potentially making Gyökeres Arsenal’s marquee signing of the summer.
Sporting, meanwhile, are already planning for life after Gyökeres, with manager Rúben Amorim reportedly targeting reinforcements to maintain the club’s competitiveness in the Primeira Liga and UEFA Champions League. The €80 million windfall from Gyökeres’ transfer would provide significant funds to reshape the squad, though replacing the striker’s output will be no easy task.
For Arsenal fans, the prospect of Gyökeres donning the red and white is an exciting one. His combination of pace, power, and clinical finishing could elevate the Gunners’ attack to new heights, potentially addressing the consistency issues that have occasionally plagued their forward line. As negotiations enter their final stages, all eyes will be on north London to see if Arsenal can seal the deal and bring Gyökeres to the Emirates Stadium.
The transfer saga is far from over, but with Arsenal now willing to meet Sporting’s demands and Gyökeres fully committed to the move, the pieces are falling into place for what could be one of the summer’s biggest transfers. Further updates are expected soon as both clubs work to finalize the agreement.
