Arsenal Face Delay in Finalising Big-Money Striker Deal Amid Growing Concern

Arsenal appear set to miss a key transfer deadline in their pursuit of Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyökeres, with Mikel Arteta facing mounting frustration as pre-season preparations intensify.

Although the transfer is still expected to go ahead, it has not progressed as swiftly as Arteta had hoped. The 26-year-old forward has been a long-term target for Arsenal, and this summer seemed the ideal moment to secure his signature. However, the move remains incomplete, and Gyökeres will not be joining his potential new teammates on the club’s pre-season tour of Singapore.

Arsenal have agreed a deal with Sporting worth up to £63.4 million, including £55 million guaranteed and an additional £8.4 million in performance-based add-ons. However, the finalisation of the transfer has been held up due to ongoing discussions around the payment structure—particularly how and when the add-ons will be paid.

This delay has reportedly sparked some concern within Arsenal’s camp, especially as rival clubs such as AC Milan continue to monitor the situation closely. The Gunners had hoped to integrate Gyökeres into the squad early to give him time to settle before the new season begins.

While confidence remains high that the deal will be completed, Arteta’s plans have been slightly disrupted. The striker’s absence from the Singapore tour underscores the need for swift resolution, as Arsenal push to finalise their marquee signing and avoid further setbacks in their summer recruitment.