Viktor Gyokeres' true feelings on Arsenal transfer saga emerge amid Man Utd hijack claims
Viktor Gyokeres' true feelings on a proposed transfer to Arsenal have emerged amid reports of Man United attempting to hijack the deal.
Arsenal have been in the market for a striker all summer and identified Gyokeres as their top target.
After a long-running saga between Gyokeres and Sporting CP over a gentleman's agreement, it was reported last week that Arsenal and Sporting had agreed an initial fee of £55 million.
However, the deal is still not finalised, with negotiations continuing over the structure and amount of add-ons, leaving the door open to rivals.
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According to Portuguese outlet SIC Noticias, Manchester United had entered talks and were also set to pay the same fee for the Swede's signature.
But English journalists were quick to play down reports that United were set to beat their Premier League rivals to Gyokeres' signature, insisting a move to Arsenal remains close.
Writing for TBR Football, Graeme Bailey said: “Arsenal are so far down the line with Viktor Gyökeres, it really is just the finer details — this time last week they thought it was done & could not imagine it running to this weekend.”
“Arsenal are staying calm, I need to emphasise that, they admit some deals are just easier than others.
“In terms of the player, I am told Gyökeres himself is frustrated, he wants to be with Arsenal now, he just wants to be with his new team-mates.”
When will Arsenal get the deal done?
Mikel Arteta's squad have already arrived in Asia ahead for their pre-season tour of Singapore and Hong Kong.
In his first press conference, Arteta was asked about the ongoing pursuit of Gyokeres.
But he said he was unable to comment on a player who was not yet part of their group.
The Gunners have already signed Martin Zubimendi, Kepa Arrizabalaga, Christian Norgaard and Noni Madueke for more than £123 million.
Alongside the ongoing pursuit of Gyokeres, they are also set to sign Valencia's young defender young defender Cristhian Mosquera.
But Arteta refused to rule out further additions to his squad beyond the duo.
"There's still a long time in the window and we are seeking still," said Arteta.
"In terms of numbers, we are short and we have to improve the depth and quality of the squad.
"We are constantly looking in the market.
"Until that happens, we focus on the players we have and I'm very pleased with what I have seen in the last 10 to 15 days."
Topics: Viktor Gyokeres, Arsenal, Transfer News, Football, Premier League, Sporting CP, Man Utd
James Taylor