Arsenal's Pursuit of Viktor Gyokeres Hits Wall as Club Rejects Bid and Sets Hefty Price Tag
Arsenal's official bid to acquire Sporting CP forward Viktor Gyökeres has been turned down, though both clubs remain "close" to reaching a transfer deal.
Gyökeres's impressive tally of 54 goals for Sporting during the previous campaign has established him as one of the summer's most sought-after talents. However, the Portuguese club has understandably insisted on conducting negotiations on their own terms.
This situation has created tension for Gyökeres and even sparked rumors that he might boycott training when pre-season commences to pressure Sporting into action. Nevertheless, a resolution appears to be approaching.
Sporting has not insisted on the complete €100 million (£86.4 million, $117.3 million) release clause value as a concession to the player. However, reports suggesting they would accept as low as €60 million (£51.8 million, $70.4 million) were inaccurate.
The asking price stands at €80 million (£69.1 million, $93.9 million), though The Guardian reports that Arsenal's current proposal matching this figure was declined due to unsuitable payment terms for Sporting.
The North London club is believed to have suggested a deal worth €65 million (£56.2 million, $76.3 million) upfront plus €15 million (£13 million, $17.6 million) in performance-related bonuses. Sporting prefers a larger guaranteed portion of €70 million (£60.5 million, $82.1 million) from the total fee.
Importantly, the gap between positions is minimal, and both sides are reportedly engaged in "productive negotiations," with resolution of the transfer matter expected soon.
Mikel Arteta reportedly wants Gyökeres's signing completed before the team departs for their Singapore pre-season tour on July 19. Arsenal have already secured Kepa Arrizabalaga and Martín Zubimendi, while also pursuing Valencia defender Cristhian Mosquera and Chelsea winger Noni Madueke.
Gyökeres represents a late-developing talent. At 27 years old, he has accumulated just 66 top-division league appearances throughout his career, all occurring during his two seasons with Sporting.
He never featured in a Premier League match for his previous club Brighton & Hove Albion and didn't emerge from a major Swedish club's academy system, instead finding his opportunity in lower divisions. However, Arsenal has proven successful with similar signings before. Olivier Giroud was 24 when he made his top-flight debut in France 15 years ago and subsequently netted 105 goals for the Gunners.