Report: Arsenal refuse to overpay for targets Benjamin Sesko and Viktor Gyokeres

Both players are highly valued by their clubs, with transfer fees reportedly around 70 million pounds, but the Gunners are holding firm to avoid overpaying as they balance multiple targets in a busy transfer window.

The north Londoners have been linked with both Sesko and Gyokeres for weeks, with recent reports suggesting significant progress in talks for the latter.

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, discussions with Gyokeres' camp have been ongoing, with the player a key target for manager Mikel Arteta. "Arsenal have been in discussions with Gyokeres for weeks. He's one of their main targets," Romano said on his YouTube channel. "But the final price still needs to be clarified with Sporting CP."

Recent posts on X have fueled speculation, with claims that Arsenal have agreed a five-year contract with Gyokeres and are in advanced negotiations with Sporting CP.

However, Romano cautioned that no deal is imminent, highlighting a ongoing dispute between Gyokeres' agents and Sporting over the transfer fee.

Meanwhile, Sesko remains a priority for Arsenal's hierarchy. BBC Sport journalist Sami Mokbel reported, "If everything goes according to plan, and they were to get the player they want, it would be Sesko." Yet, negotiations with RB Leipzig have hit obstacles, with the German club rejecting an initial bid and holding firm on their valuation.

Tom Canton, football.london's chief Arsenal correspondent, emphasized the complexity of the deals. "Negotiations at this scale are not simple. Both RB Leipzig and Sporting CP have high valuations for Sesko and Gyokeres, above what Arsenal are willing to pay," he said. "If there's no flexibility on price, Arsenal will likely explore other options, as they aim to conduct other business within financial limits."

Sporting CP's president, Frederico Varandas, has acknowledged a "strong likelihood" of Gyokeres leaving but insisted on a fair valuation. "Sporting doesn't need to sell, but we understand Viktor's aspirations," Varandas said, hinting at a fee below the striker's 85-million-pound release clause but above the 60 million pounds initially expected.

Arsenal's determination to strengthen their attack comes after finishing second in the Premier League for three consecutive seasons. With Arteta eager to have a new striker in place before their pre-season tour of Singapore and Hong Kong on July 19, the Gunners are under pressure to finalize a deal swiftly.

With the transfer window heating up, the Gunners' next move will be crucial in their quest to challenge for the Premier League title.