Arteta Sets Arsenal Deadline to Complete Viktor Gyokeres Transfer

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has reportedly set a firm deadline for the club to finalise a deal for Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres.

The Gunners have already been active in the summer transfer window, securing the signing of goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga from Chelsea. Deals for midfielders Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad and Christian Norgaard from Brentford are also said to be progressing, as Arteta looks to strengthen his squad ahead of the new season.

However, securing a new striker remains a top priority. Arsenal have identified Gyokeres and RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko as their leading targets to bolster the attack.

Negotiations for Gyokeres have been challenging, with Sporting CP reportedly demanding between £60 million and £85 million, despite the striker believing he had a verbal agreement allowing him to leave for around £52 million plus add-ons this summer.

Amid the ongoing uncertainty, reports suggest Gyokeres could refuse to report for pre-season training with Sporting as he pushes for a move away from Portugal.

According to Daily Mail journalist Isaan Khan, Arteta is eager to avoid a prolonged saga and has instructed the club to finalise a striker signing by July 19. Arsenal are keen to settle their squad early to ensure new signings are integrated in time for pre-season preparations.

The coming weeks could prove decisive as Arsenal look to strengthen their frontline and close a deal for their top striker target.