New Report Reveals What Is Delaying Viktor Gyokeres’ Move to Arsenal

Arsenal had hoped to have Viktor Gyökeres on board before flying out for their pre-season tour of Asia today, but the deal remains incomplete due to Sporting CP’s continued resistance over key elements of the transfer, according to The Daily Mirror. Despite progress in recent days and a general agreement over the structure of the deal, Sporting’s negotiating stance has caused a delay that leaves the striker still in Lisbon.

The Gunners have been in advanced talks with Sporting for weeks, having made Gyökeres their primary striker target for the summer. Mikel Arteta is eager to have his full attacking options in place as soon as possible to begin tactical preparation and team integration ahead of a demanding 2025/26 season. However, while personal terms between Arsenal and the player have already been agreed, finalising the deal with Sporting has proven far more complicated than expected.

Sporting Hold Firm

Sporting’s reluctance to compromise on specific add-on clauses and bonus conditions has become the main roadblock. While a base fee of £55 million was reportedly agreed upon earlier this month, the Lisbon club are holding out over the structure of £8.5 million in add-ons. Arsenal are said to be negotiating for performance-based incentives, while Sporting are pushing for more guaranteed or easily triggered bonuses.

The Portuguese club’s hardline approach is frustrating Arsenal, who believed the deal could be concluded before the squad’s flight out of London on Tuesday morning. Sources suggest Sporting are leveraging Gyökeres’ release clause, and although Arsenal are close to meeting the full financial value, they are trying to avoid being drawn into a rigid payment structure.

Gyökeres Ready and Waiting

For his part, Gyökeres is believed to be keen on the move and has made his desire to join Arsenal clear. The Swedish striker is reportedly waiting for the green light to undergo his medical in London and is eager to link up with Arteta’s squad. His omission from Sporting’s pre-season preparations has only intensified speculation, with signs pointing to an imminent move—once the financial details are ironed out.

Gyökeres, who scored 43 goals in all competitions last season, is viewed by Arsenal as the ideal No. 9 to complement their dynamic front line, offering physicality, link-up play, and finishing prowess. With Gabriel Jesus struggling with injuries last season and Kai Havertz being more of a hybrid forward, the arrival of a natural striker has been deemed essential.

What Next for Arsenal?

While the delay is undoubtedly frustrating, Arsenal remain confident that a deal will eventually be struck. Talks continue at a high level, and sources close to both clubs suggest that resolution is now a matter of when, not if. The hope within the Arsenal camp is that Gyökeres could still join the squad mid-tour, pending a swift breakthrough in discussions.

Until then, Arsenal will begin their preparations in Asia without their top striker target—but remain firmly on course to complete one of the window’s biggest signings in the coming days.