Arsenal's pursuit of Sporting Lisbon striker Viktor Gyokeres has hit a significant roadblock, with the Portuguese giants refusing to budge on their £85 million valuation of the Swedish international.
The 25-year-old forward has emerged as one of Mikel Arteta's primary targets this summer after a sensational debut season in Portugal, where he netted 29 goals in 39 appearances across all competitions.
Release Clause or No Deal
Sporting's president Frederico Varandas has made it clear to potential suitors that they won't entertain any offers below Gyokeres' release clause. This firm stance leaves Arsenal with a difficult decision - meet the full asking price or walk away from negotiations.
Gunners boss Arteta is desperate to add firepower to his squad after seeing his side's title challenge falter last season due to a lack of clinical finishing. Gyokeres' physical presence and proven goalscoring ability make him an attractive option to lead Arsenal's frontline.
Competition for Signatures
Arsenal aren't the only club monitoring the situation, with several top European sides reportedly keeping tabs on the former Coventry City man. However, the North London club are believed to be at the front of the queue should Sporting soften their stance.
The transfer saga comes at a crucial time for Arsenal, who are also working on other potential deals to strengthen their squad ahead of the new Premier League season. Whether they'll break their transfer record for Gyokeres remains to be seen.
