Viktor Gyokeres’ proposed move to Arsenal has taken another interesting twist as the saga drags on.
Gyokeres, 27, has been heavily linked with a move to Arsenal all summer, having impressed with 54 goals in 52 games as Sporting CP won the double in Portugal last season.
Earlier this week, The Athletic reported that Arsenal were in the process of completing a deal to sign the Sweden forward.
A deal in principle is supposedly in place, thought to be worth £54.8m plus £8.6m in potential add-ons. The striker’s agent has even waived his fee to help get the deal over the line.
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The report suggested that Sporting president Frederico Varandas had held up the potential move as he refused to accept what Gyokeres believes was an agreement to leave this summer for €60m (£52m) plus €10m (£8.6m) of add-ons.
But still, no official announcement has been made.
On Saturday, ESPN reported that Arsenal have now departed for their pre-season tour to Asia, with talks said to be continuing with regards to a deal.
Sources have reportedly told the outlet that the Gunners had hoped to have new signing Noni Madueke and Gyokeres among the travelling party for the games against AC Milan, Newcastle and Spurs.
Other new men, Martin Zubimendi, Kepa Arrizabalaga and Christian Norgaard were part of the 30-man squad for the trip to Asia.
Meanwhile, Swedish outlet Maisfutebol claimed that a lack of confidence in the deal led Gyokeres’ father to burst into tears on Friday as he no longer believes the deal will be successful.
The hold up is thought to be in relation to a disagreement regarding several components of the deal - including the structure of the payments, bonuses, training compensation and solidarity contributions as per the Mail.
Earlier this month, Gyokeres spoke to French outlet L’Equipe about his previous stints in England with Coventry and Brighton.
"It's one of the biggest leagues in Europe," Gyokeres said. "I spent several years there without being able to play a single match. So, of course, it's something I would like to do. It would be a great revenge."
He added: "It's football, you never know. I'm not thinking about it, we'll see what happens. If something is going to happen, it will happen. The most important thing for me is to play for a club that really wants me.
"I'm definitely one of the [best strikers in the world]. It's difficult to rank me, but yes, I'm at the same table as them now. What I managed to do at Sporting, I'm convinced I can do anywhere. You haven't seen the best of Gyokeres yet."
Topics: Viktor Gyokeres, Arsenal, Transfer News, Football, Premier League, Sporting CP
Luke Davies