Arsenal’s summer transfer fireworks show is lighting up Europe, but the much-anticipated signing of Swedish goal machine Viktor Gyokeres has hit a frustrating snag, add-ons are now at the heart of a growing dispute with Sporting Lisbon.
The Gunners, who’ve already splashed out nearly £70 million on Martin Zubimendi, Christian Norgaard, and Kepa Arrizabalaga, are still keen to finalize a high-profile move for Gyokeres.
The striker, who’s been on Arsenal’s radar for months, has openly expressed his desire to join the North London giants after a blistering run of 97 goals in 102 matches since his 2023 move from Coventry to Sporting.
📰 Also Read This:
However, despite making an improved bid, with a significant cut in the agent’s fee to speed things up, Arsenal now find themselves at a standstill.
According to Portugal’s Record, the problem lies in the structure of performance-based add-ons. Sporting reportedly wants these bonus conditions to be easily triggered, while Arsenal are “resisting” this demand, causing yet another friction point.
Even though the deal is still expected to be completed, this latest disagreement throws a shadow over what has otherwise been an aggressive and ambitious summer window for Mikel Arteta’s side.
Meanwhile, the Gunners are not stopping there. They’re close to sealing a £52 million swoop for Chelsea winger Noni Madueke, who missed the Club World Cup final to return to the UK and finalize his move to the Emirates. Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca has all but confirmed the transfer, saying:
“At the end, if players want to leave, it’s difficult for the club and the manager. Noni decided to leave… I guess he is going to be [announced] in the next hours.”
On the defensive end, Arsenal have locked in personal terms with Valencia defender Cristhian Mosquera, with a £20 million fee in the works. The 21-year-old versatile defender is expected to strengthen Arteta’s backline following the early termination of Takehiro Tomiyasu’s contract.
Should all three deals, Gyokeres, Madueke, and Mosquera, go through, Arsenal’s summer spending will soar past the £200 million mark, signaling the club’s unwavering commitment to challenge for silverware this season.
But for now, the Gyokeres deal remains the talking point, with fans and pundits watching closely to see whether Sporting will ease their stance, or if Arsenal will hold their ground.
