Arsenal has reportedly reached a long-awaited agreement with Sporting for Swedish striker Viktor Gyokeres, signaling the conclusion of a protracted contract saga.
According to reports, Arsenal has agreed to a five-year deal worth €63.5 million (AU$114 million), which includes an additional €10 million (AU$18 million) in add-ons.
The 27-year-old forward scored 54 goals in 52 matches for Sporting last season, making him one of Europe’s most sought-after players during the summer transfer window.
Gyokeres is expected to bolster Arsenal’s attacking options, particularly as the Premier League runners-up have struggled to replace Alexandre Lacazette and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang since their departures in 2022, while Gabriel Jesus continues to deal with injuries.
The signing of Gyokeres has been marked by a lengthy negotiation process, which included the striker attempting to secure a release from his club and rumors of a last-minute bid from Manchester United.
Earlier in July, Gyokeres did not attend training with Sporting as he sought to facilitate a move to London. Although initial negotiations with Arsenal appeared to falter shortly thereafter, Manchester United reportedly considered making a similar offer to secure his services. However, reports from Portugal indicated that Gyokeres preferred Arsenal due to his past relationship with club manager Ruben Amorim and recent interactions involving his compatriot Victor Lindelof.
Sky Sports has reported that discussions have reached an “extremely advanced” stage, with a resolution expected imminently.
Arsenal's transfer activity has been significant this period, with spending estimated at around AU$370 million. The club has signed midfielder Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad for £51 million (AU$105.2 million) and Christian Norgaard from Brentford for £15 million (AU$30.94 million). Additionally, Spanish goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga joined from Chelsea for £5 million (AU$10.31 million), and Arsenal is set to acquire winger Noni Madueke for £52 million (AU$107.26 million).
In other Premier League transfer news, West Ham is reportedly close to signing former Newcastle United striker Callum Wilson, who declined a pay-as-you-play offer at St James’ Park.
Meanwhile, Leeds United's Mateo Joseph has expressed a desire to leave the club, as confirmed by manager Daniel Farke.
Atletico Madrid has signed Almeria full-back Marc Pubill after missing out on Jesus Areso, who joined Athletic Bilbao despite earlier reports of an agreement with Atletico. The club announced that a deal has been reached with Almeria, pending a medical examination and contract signing.
Atletico did not disclose the transfer fee for the 22-year-old defender, who had been linked to a AU$27 million move to Premier League side Wolves. Areso’s return to Athletic Bilbao reportedly cost up to $21 million.
Athletic confirmed the transfer of Areso, who has signed until June 30, 2031, following a successful negotiation with Osasuna.
Ernesto Valverde’s Athletic finished fourth in La Liga last season and successfully retained winger Nico Williams earlier this summer amidst interest from Barcelona.
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