Arsenal are on the brink of securing a significant addition to their squad, as Swedish striker Viktor Gyokeres has set his sights on a move to London. The Gunners have been proactive in this summer’s transfer window with successful acquisitions of Kepa Arrizabalaga, Martin Zubimendi, and Christian Norgaard, while an announcement regarding Noni Madueke’s switch from Chelsea is also expected soon.
However, Arsenal’s protracted negotiations with Sporting CP for Gyokeres seem to have hit a stumbling block. Although the North London club has reportedly met Sporting’s €80 million (£69 million) valuation, disagreements persist over the payment structure. Sporting are demanding €70 million (£60 million) upfront, compared to Arsenal’s offer of €65 million (£56 million).
Gyokeres, having ironed out personal terms with Arsenal, is reluctant to further participate in Sporting’s pre-season preparations. Transfer specialist Graeme Bailey has informed TBR Football of Gyokeres’ intention to head to London early next week to finalise his move.
Bailey remarked, “Gyokeres has made it clear to Sporting’s president, Frederico Varandas, that his commitment to the club has concluded. With personal terms agreed with Arsenal, the move to England is imminent. The gap between the clubs’ positions is narrow and Arsenal remain steadfast in their pursuit of the Swede.”
In an intriguing legal twist, Joao Caido Guerreiro, lawyer and columnist for A Bola, has floated the possibility of Sporting facing a “dismissal without compensation” scenario should Gyokeres persist in his refusal to train.
Guerreiro explained, “Absence from training without valid reasons constitutes a breach. Repeated cases enable the club to pursue dismissal with cause. Nonetheless, Gyokeres can provide numerous justifications ranging from family obligations to health reasons, complicating the legalities.”
He further elaborated, “While Gyokeres announced his absence with the specific aim of moving to Arsenal, his justifications are limited. Sporting could potentially impose fines, or more severe actions, including dismissal. However, this outcome would allow Gyokeres to join Arsenal for free, a financial debacle for Sporting given Arsenal’s substantial offer.”
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