London, UK – Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has reportedly handed the club a strict deadline to finalise the signing of Swedish striker Viktor Gyokeres — or an alternative — ahead of the Gunners’ pre-season tour of Asia.
With Arsenal determined to reinforce their attacking options and mount a stronger Premier League title challenge, the club is racing against time to bring in a new forward before they depart for Singapore on July 19.
Reports suggest Arsenal have already agreed personal terms with Gyokeres, who netted 43 goals in all competitions last season for Sporting Lisbon. Negotiations continue between Arsenal and Sporting, who are demanding a fee in the region of €80 million (£69 million) for their prolific frontman.
Arteta is eager to conclude the deal swiftly to integrate the striker into his tactical setup before the new season. According to Mail Online, the Spanish boss expects the transfer to be sealed during the week commencing July 14 — just days before the Gunners fly out for the Asia tour.
Sporting President Names Arsenal While Hinting at Exit Conditions
Sporting CP president Federico Varandas recently addressed the speculation surrounding Gyokeres’ future, indirectly acknowledging Arsenal’s interest.
“Sporting is calm regarding this matter. We don’t need to sell Viktor Gyokeres,” said Varandas. “But we are sensitive to Viktor’s dreams. We will be reasonable regarding the amount requested.”
He firmly ruled out selling the striker for €60+10 million, hinting at a higher valuation based on recent transfers of similar forwards like Martin Zubimendi and Matheus Cunha, both of whom commanded fees in the €65–€75 million range.
“Today, there is a strong likelihood that he will leave. Viktor won’t leave for €60+10 million — absolutely not. His agent is one of the best in the world, and I trust he knows Viktor’s worth,” Varandas added.
Arsenal Transfer Business Heating Up
While Gyokeres remains Arsenal’s top striker target, the club is also closing in on other high-profile acquisitions. Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi is reportedly close to completing his switch to the Emirates, as Arteta looks to strengthen the midfield with technical quality and defensive balance.
Additionally, Valencia’s promising centre-back Cristhian Mosquera has rejected a new deal with the La Liga side to push through a move to North London.
With less than two weeks left before Arsenal’s Asia pre-season schedule kicks off, the coming days are expected to be decisive in shaping the club’s summer transfer window.