Arsenal’s summer transfer window has taken a dramatic turn as the Gunners have reportedly decided to step back from their pursuit of Sporting CP’s prolific striker Viktor Gyokeres, whose future has become embroiled in a bitter dispute with his club. The 27-year-old Swedish forward, who has lit up the Primeira Liga with an astonishing 97 goals in 102 appearances, was a top target for Mikel Arteta’s side. However, escalating tensions and accusations of “betrayal” between Gyokeres and Sporting have prompted Arsenal to cool their interest, redirecting their focus to other attacking options, most notably RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko. This strategic shift underscores Arsenal’s determination to bolster their frontline while navigating a complex transfer market.
Gyokeres’ remarkable goal-scoring record, including 51 goals in 53 matches during the 2024-25 season, made him a prime candidate to address Arsenal’s need for a reliable No. 9. Injuries to key forwards like Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz last season exposed vulnerabilities in the Gunners’ attack, with no player reaching double figures in Premier League goals. “I’ve known for a month that the first choice for Arsenal in the striker position is Gyokeres,” Italian journalist Alfredo Pedulla revealed, reflecting the club’s initial enthusiasm. Arsenal’s sporting director, Andrea Berta, had prioritized the Swede, with reports suggesting a £63.4 million (€75m) bid and a gentleman’s agreement with Sporting for a transfer fee around £60 million, significantly below Gyokeres’ £85 million release clause. The player himself expressed a preference for Arsenal over rivals like Manchester United, with sources noting he was “enticed” by the prospect of competing for silverware under Arteta.
However, the transfer saga turned contentious as Sporting’s president, Frederico Varandas, firmly rejected claims of any agreement. “One thing you should already know is me better. Threats, blackmail, and insults don’t work with me,” Varandas declared, denying promises that Gyokeres could leave for €60m+10m. He accused the striker’s agent of “playing games,” escalating tensions. Gyokeres, feeling “betrayed” by Sporting’s refusal to honor the alleged agreement, reportedly threatened to strike and rejected clear-the-air talks with the club. “There is a lot of talks at the moment, most of it is false. I will speak when the time is right,” Gyokeres posted on Instagram, signaling his frustration while remaining cryptic about his future. Currently on holiday in Saint Tropez, the former Coventry City star is not expected to return to Sporting soon, further complicating negotiations.
Arsenal’s decision to “freeze” their pursuit stems from Sporting’s inflexible stance and the rising costs, with some reports indicating a potential €100 million (£85m) demand. “Arsenal have got fed up with Sporting’s demands, and Gyokeres is no longer their first choice because it was too expensive,” a source close to the negotiations revealed. Instead, the Gunners have shifted focus to Sesko, a 22-year-old Slovenian whose £88.5 million agreement is reportedly closer to completion. Sesko’s youth and performance in the Bundesliga, a more competitive league, make him a more sustainable long-term investment, despite Gyokeres’ superior goal tally. “I have a very good feeling on Sesko moving to Arsenal,” a German football journalist noted, highlighting the momentum behind this alternative deal.
The Gunners’ transfer strategy extends beyond the striker position. A £51 million deal for Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi is nearly finalized, addressing midfield concerns, while interest in Real Madrid’s Rodrygo and Athletic Club’s Nico Williams suggests a broader ambition to enhance attacking depth. “We need a goal threat and we need the firepower out there,” Arteta emphasized, underscoring the urgency to resolve Arsenal’s scoring woes. Gyokeres, despite his undeniable talent, has also drawn interest from Juventus, who offered a £11 million-per-year contract, and other clubs like Chelsea and Manchester United, though he reportedly turned down the latter.
The saga has divided opinions. Sporting’s manager, Rui Borges, praised Gyokeres as “the best striker in Europe,” citing his 63 goals and 10 assists last season, yet acknowledged his likely departure. Meanwhile, Arsenal legend Emmanuel Petit advocated for Newcastle’s Alexander Isak over Gyokeres, citing Isak’s Premier League experience. As Arsenal pivot to Sesko and other targets, the Gyokeres saga serves as a reminder of the complexities of modern transfers, where ambition, egos, and financial realities collide. For now, Arsenal fans await confirmation of new signings, hopeful that Arteta’s vision will finally deliver the firepower needed to challenge for the Premier League crown.
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