Things are getting messy: Arsenal’s True Feelings Exposed as Gyokeres Declares War on Sporting and £70M Emirates Deal Crumbles

Arsenal’s pursuit of Viktor Gyokeres has escalated into a dramatic saga as the Swedish striker wages an open war with Sporting Lisbon in a bid to force a £70 million move to the Emirates. While the Gunners remain quietly confident, the move is dangerously close to falling apart amid tense negotiations, a furious stand-off, and threats of strike action. 

Gyokeres, 27, has made his intentions crystal clear: he does not want to play for Sporting Lisbon ever again.  

Reports from Portugal reveal the striker has told the club he will not report for pre-season training this week, pushing to finalize his long-dreamed Premier League return. The former Coventry and Brighton forward has effectively gone on strike, a move Arsenal are watching closely as they work behind the scenes to seal the deal. 

The north London club have already agreed personal terms with Gyokeres, offering him a five-year contract that would make him Arsenal’s new No. 9.  

However, the real roadblock lies in the fee: Sporting president Frederico Varandas is digging his heels in, demanding £70 million, with £60 million to be paid up front and the rest in performance-based add-ons. 

Gyokeres is said to be invoking a “gentleman’s agreement” that would allow him to leave, but Varandas has outright denied any such understanding. The situation has grown increasingly hostile, with Sporting even imposing a “cooling-off” period after negotiations with Arsenal reached a deadlock earlier this week. 

Despite the ongoing tension, Arsenal still believe the deal can be done. Sources close to the club describe the current state of talks as “drawn out rather than dead,” and there’s internal optimism that Gyokeres’ determination to join could ultimately force Sporting’s hand. 

Arsenal’s interest in Gyokeres is well-founded. The prolific striker lit up Portuguese football last season, scoring an astonishing 97 goals in 102 appearances. Mikel Arteta sees him as the missing piece in the attack, a dynamic finisher who can bring consistency to the final third. 

In the background, Arsenal are also working on other transfer business. The Gunners have confirmed the £12m signing of Brentford’s Christian Norgaard and wrapped up a deal for experienced shot-stopper Kepa Arrizabalaga.  

Meanwhile, they are making a bold push to sign Chelsea winger Noni Madueke, despite fierce backlash from fans who are skeptical about his potential impact. 

Another pressing issue surrounds Arsenal wonderkid Ethan Nwaneri. The 18-year-old midfielder, seen as a generational talent, is entering the final year of his contract.  

However, uncertainty over game time could push him toward the exit door, with Chelsea keenly watching his situation. Arsenal know they must act fast to secure his future before their London rivals pounce. 

As for Gyokeres, the clock is ticking. Arsenal are eager to finalize the deal before jetting off for their preseason tour, but unless Sporting Lisbon budge, the Gunners may have to prepare for a long and messy standoff.