When Arsenal were closing in on the signing of Viktor Gyökeres, Manchester United burst in on the deal. The Swedish striker remains determined to play at the Emirates, but the obstacles are growing.

Arsenal had it almost done

Over the last few weeks, Arsenal made steady progress in their bid to sign Viktor Gyökeres, Sporting CP's star striker. Negotiations reached a key point with an offer of more than 70 million euros between fixed and variable payments.

From London, the deal was considered completed, with an agreement structured around 63.5 million euros in guaranteed payments and an additional 10 million euros in incentives. However, in the last stretch, the position of the Portuguese club has complicated the closing.

United puts the pressure on

With the deal unsealed, Manchester United have reactivated their interest and have made direct contact with the player's entourage. Although there is no formal offer on the table, the Old Trafford club is trying to take advantage of the delay to enter the fray.
Despite this approach, sources close to the player claim that Gyökeres maintains his intention to sign for Arsenal, and that his entourage has already rejected United's offers on more than one occasion.

Gyökeres, the most desired striker

At 26, Gyökeres is coming off an impressive season with Sporting: 43 goals and 15 assists in all competitions. His physicality, mobility and goalscoring ability make him one of the most complete strikers on the European market today.

Imminent end?

Gyökeres' agent is already in London to unblock the negotiation. For its part, Arsenal is looking to resolve the issue as soon as possible in order to be able to count on the Swede for its pre-season tour. If no progress is made, the club does not rule out a change of target.
Meanwhile, Manchester United are keeping a close eye on every move, waiting for an opportunity to launch a final offensive if talks break down.