Viktor Gyokeres has reportedly been in fresh contact with Sporting president Frederico Varandas to relay his frustrations about negotiations not progressing with Arsenal. The striker is keen to join the Gunners this summer, but talks slowed towards the end of the weekend.
Gyokeres is keen to leave Sporting before the start of next season and has previously expressed his anger at the club after feeling that a ‘gentleman’s agreement’ for him to depart is not being adhered to.
Nevertheless, Arsenal are pushing to strike a deal for Gyokeres and have shortlisted him as their top striker target after pulling out of talks with RB Leipzig for Benjamin Sesko due to the potential fees involved.
According to Record, the Gunners have made a verbal offer worth £56million plus £13m in add-ons. Although the offer meets Sporting’s total asking price of £69m, they are unhappy with how the payment structure is split and are demanding more upfront.
The Portuguese outfit would like £60.3m in guaranteed fees which has halted negotiations for the moment. No advances were made in talks on Sunday too, which left Gyokeres particularly angered.
The Swedish international is said to have contacted Varandas to inform him of how he is ‘frustrated’. Sporting have already afforded Gyokeres extra time off ahead of pre-season, despite the striker making it clear he has no intention of returning, and it remains to be seen whether his disgruntlement prompts talks to be reignited successfully.
Arsenal will be keen to advance as soon as possible for Gyokeres as they look to breathe a fresh lease of life into their attacking ranks. Mikel Arteta’s side are pushing to sign Chelsea star Noni Madueke as part of their reshuffle, with personal terms already agreed with the England international. The 23-year-old will provide cover for Bukayo Saka but also be a potential option off of the left.
The Gunners are also keen to sign Madueke’s international teammate Eberechi Eze. The playmaker has a release clause worth £68million in his contract with Crystal Palace, though it remains to be seen whether Arsenal attempt to negotiate a deal for a lesser fee when they open talks with the Eagles. The north London outfit are also locked in talks with Valencia over a deal for defender Cristhian Mosquera.
Content Source: www.express.co.uk