Report: Viktor Gyokeres transfer drama intensifies as 'unresolved details' hinder Arsenal move

The Gunners, eager to bolster their attacking options, have been locked in intense negotiations with the Portuguese giants, with manager Mikel Arteta keen to land the Swedish star before the new Premier League season kicks off.

The clubs have agreed on a base fee of 63.5 million euros for the 27-year-old, with an additional 10 million euros in potential add-ons, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.

However, Sporting have pushed for specific clauses, including bonuses tied to Gyokeres playing 20 games in his first season, another 20 in his second, and Arsenal qualifying for the Champions League.

A fourth clause, linked to another 20-game block in his second season, has sparked disagreement, with Arsenal arguing it should be tied to a more ambitious target. This has created a 2.5 million euro gap in negotiations, stalling the deal's completion.

Romano, speaking on his YouTube channel, said: "The conversation is still ongoing. The agents of the player are in London to resolve the agreement. On the player side, everything is okay, five-year contract, Gyokeres is fighting to go to Arsenal. But it's really important to agree on the add-ons. Arsenal and Sporting are working on this deal every single hour."

The situation has taken a dramatic turn, with Gyokeres refusing to return to Sporting's pre-season training, remaining in Sweden as he awaits a resolution. This move has drawn sharp criticism in Portugal.

"Gyokeres is showing the world that he's a bad professional," said Record director Bernardo Ribeiro. "Throwing a tantrum by not showing up when he has a contract and is paid on time."

CNN Portugal's Bruno Andrade warned: "If Gyokeres travels with Arsenal without the deal done, it's a mistake and stupidity. He will suffer the consequences legally. When he knows the process will be finalised, then he can travel."

Sporting's supporters have also expressed their frustration, with banners during a recent friendly against Celtic reading: "I don't cry for those who leave, I'm happy for those who stay" and "No one is above the interests of the club."

Sporting's president, Frederico Varandas, has insisted Gyokeres will face fines for his absence, stating: "We're calm. Everything will be resolved with a heavy fine and an apology to the group."

The Gunners had hoped to finalise the transfer before their pre-season tour of Asia, where they face AC Milan in Singapore on Wednesday.

However, recent reports on X from @karthikadhaigal suggest Arsenal are not expected to complete the deal before the squad departs on Saturday. Gyokeres, who has already packed up his Lisbon home, may now have to wait until August 6, when Arsenal return to face Villarreal in a pre-season friendly, to complete his move.

Gyokeres, who scored an astonishing 54 goals in 52 games last season, including a hat-trick against Manchester City in the Champions League, has been Arsenal's top target after Arteta shifted focus from RB Leipzig's Benjamin Sesko.

His arrival would add a ruthless edge to the Gunners' attack, which struggled without a recognised No. 9 last season, finishing 10 points behind champions Liverpool.Despite the delays, Arsenal remain optimistic.

The clubs are close to a breakthrough, with Gyokeres' camp already in London to finalise personal terms. Meanwhile, Arsenal have confirmed the signings of Noni Madueke from Chelsea, Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad, and Christian Norgaard from Brentford, with Valencia's Cristhian Mosquera also set to join, as per recent reports.

The saga continues to unfold, with Arsenal fans eagerly awaiting news of Gyokeres donning the red and white. For now, the Gunners must navigate Sporting's demands to bring their marquee signing over the line.