Arsenal are hopeful that next week could prove decisive in their long-running search for a new striker, with Sporting CP's Viktor Gyokeres at the centre of the drama. The Swedish forward, who has been pushing for a move to north London, is due to report for pre-season training on Friday after being granted a four-day extension by the Portuguese club. However, tensions remain high as Gyokeres and his agent accuse Sporting president Frederico Varandas of reneging on a gentleman's agreement that would have allowed the 27-year-old to leave for £60 million.
Gyokeres is currently in Sweden, awaiting developments, and is reportedly prepared to go on strike to force through a transfer. He plans to hold face-to-face talks with Varandas upon his return to Portugal, but feels there is no way back after his contribution to Sporting over the past two seasons. Arsenal's sporting director Andrea Berta has been actively pursuing Gyokeres since joining the club, while manager Mikel Arteta has also shown interest in RB Leipzig's Benjamin Sesko for over 18 months.
Arsenal have not yet made a formal offer for either player, but Berta has held initial discussions with representatives of both clubs. The Gunners are monitoring the situation closely, believing that if Sporting soften their stance on Gyokeres' price tag, it could strengthen their hand in negotiations for either forward. Additionally, Arsenal are interested in Aston Villa's Ollie Watkins and Eintracht Frankfurt's Hugo Ekitike, while also targeting wide and attacking midfield options such as Eberechi Eze, Noni Madueke, and Rodrygo.
Personal terms are reportedly in place with Chelsea winger Noni Madueke, and Arsenal are expected to approach the Blues to discuss a potential transfer. Sources at Chelsea indicate they anticipate a bid from Arsenal in the coming days. Meanwhile, Gyokeres has been training with a personal fitness coach in Mykonos, where Sesko has also been on holiday, with the two striker targets even sharing the same mobile barber.
