Arsenal's pursuit of a new striker has taken a significant turn, with the Gunners reportedly closing in on Viktor Gyokeres after facing complications in their pursuit of Benjamin Sesko. While Sesko has been a long-term target, Arsenal have seemingly shifted their focus to the Swedish international, Gyokeres, who plays for Sporting Lisbon.
Reports indicate that Arsenal are in advanced talks with Sporting Lisbon for Gyokeres, and a deal is close. The Gunners have reportedly agreed to personal terms with the 27-year-old striker on a five-year contract. Mikel Arteta is supposedly pushing for a swift resolution to the situation. The potential transfer fee for Gyokeres is estimated to be around £69 million.
Several factors have contributed to this shift in strategy. RB Leipzig, Sesko's current club, are demanding a hefty sum, exceeding £60 million, for the 22-year-old. While Arsenal have reportedly agreed to personal terms with Sesko, the high transfer fee may have prompted them to explore alternative options.
Viktor Gyokeres has emerged as a viable alternative, and the player himself is reportedly keen on joining Arsenal, even turning down a lucrative offer from Juventus. Gyokeres has informed Sporting Lisbon about his agreement with Arsenal, signaling his strong desire to move to the Emirates.
Despite the advanced negotiations with Gyokeres, it is not yet certain that Arsenal have completely dropped their interest in Sesko. However, the progress in talks with Sporting strongly suggests that Arsenal are now prioritizing a move for Gyokeres. Arsenal's sporting director, Andrea Berta, has been diligently working on both fronts, aiming to secure the most ideal agreement.
The potential arrival of Gyokeres would provide Arsenal with a proven goalscorer who has demonstrated his abilities in the Portuguese Primeira Liga. Over the past two seasons, he has scored a remarkable 97 goals in 102 matches for Sporting CP. His goal-scoring record and physical attributes make him an attractive option for Arsenal as they seek to bolster their attacking options.
With Arsenal seemingly on the verge of securing Gyokeres's signature, the final hurdle involves finalizing the agreement with Sporting Lisbon. If the Gunners can successfully negotiate the transfer fee and other details, they will have added a quality striker to their squad, enhancing their chances of competing for major honors in the upcoming season.