Arsenal is clearly not messing around this transfer window.
After hitting a dead end in their chase for Benjamin Sesko, the Gunners have turned their full attention to Sporting Lisbon’s goal machine, Viktor Gyokeres — and they’re moving fast.
Personal Talks Signal Arsenal’s Serious Intent
The club’s sporting director, Andrea Berta, has taken things up a notch.
According to reports from CNN Portugal, Berta flew to Lisbon last week for direct talks with Gyokeres.
He’s believed to have met face-to-face with the striker to iron out the potential details of a high-stakes deal that could reach a whopping £70 million.
From Sesko Stalemate to Gyokeres Momentum
Arsenal had initially been focused on signing RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko, but the German club refused to budge on their steep valuation.
That stalemate opened the door for Gyokeres to re-emerge as the top name on Arsenal’s list.
The Swedish striker, who has lit up Portugal with a jaw-dropping 97 goals in 102 games over the last two seasons, is now firmly in the spotlight.
Arsenal Ramps Up Transfer Business Across the Board
But Arsenal’s transfer activity doesn’t stop there.
The North London club just confirmed the signing of Spanish midfielder Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad in a £60 million deal.
And now, they’re eyeing Chelsea’s Noni Madueke. Talks with the England winger’s camp have already progressed, with personal terms reportedly agreed.
Chelsea, however, are demanding over £50 million for Madueke — and in an interesting twist, they’ve asked about Arsenal’s teenage sensation, Ethan Nwaneri, who has yet to sign a new contract.
Arsenal is still hopeful they can keep the 18-year-old and are working with his agents to reach a middle ground.
Tension Builds Between Gyokeres and Sporting Lisbon
Back in Portugal, the situation with Gyokeres is heating up.
Sporting officials had been worried that the 26-year-old might boycott pre-season training altogether.
Tensions escalated when Gyokeres publicly accused the club of reneging on a promise to let him leave for £60 million.
In response, Sporting president Frederico Varandas insisted that no formal offer had been received and warned that the club wouldn’t give in to “blackmails and insults.”
Juve and Saudi Clubs Miss Out
Despite serious interest from Juventus and big-money bids from Saudi sides Al-Hilal and Al-Qadsiah, Gyokeres appears to be holding out for a move to the Premier League.
The Swedish international is under contract with Sporting until 2028, but it’s becoming increasingly clear that he wants a new challenge — and that Arsenal is his preferred destination.
Other Targets on Arsenal’s Radar
Even as the Gyokeres deal moves forward, Arsenal is keeping tabs on other attacking options.
Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins was briefly considered, and they still have an eye on Crystal Palace playmaker Eberechi Eze and Real Madrid’s Rodrygo as potential additions.
What Comes Next?
With multiple high-profile moves in the works and tensions rising over the Gyokeres situation, all eyes are on Arsenal as they look to close deals before the season begins.
One thing’s certain — Mikel Arteta and his team are going all in to strengthen their squad for a serious title challenge.