According to The Sun, Arsenal is looking to negotiate a deal for Sporting Lisbon attacker Viktor Gyokeres, aiming to secure him for around £60 million during the current summer transfer window. However, the Portuguese club is holding firm to the 26-year-old’s £85 million release clause, unwilling to let him go for less.
Gyokeres had an exceptional 2023-2024 season, scoring 43 goals and providing 15 assists in 50 games across all competitions, making him the Primeira Liga’s top scorer with 29 goals. His impressive performance has caught the attention of Arsenal, with manager Mikel Arteta seeing him as an ideal addition to strengthen their attack for a potential title challenge.
Initially, RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko was at the top of Arsenal’s transfer wishlist, with plans to activate his £55 million release clause. However, Sesko’s recent contract extension with the Bundesliga team forced Arsenal to shift their focus to another target. Gyokeres has been scouted by Arsenal multiple times over the past year and possesses the skills to enhance their offensive capabilities.
Despite their interest, Sporting’s demand of £85 million could pose a significant hurdle. Arsenal is hesitant to meet this price for the former Coventry City striker. Sporting Lisbon is looking to raise funds this summer and prefers to sell other players such as defenders Ousmane Diomande and Goncalo Inacio, who are also linked to Arsenal. Diomande is valued at £50 million, while Inacio has a £52 million release clause.
Arsenal remains more focused on acquiring an attacker and hopes Sporting will be more flexible in their financial demands for Gyokeres.