After a transfer saga that kept several major European clubs guessing, Swedish striker Viktor Gyokeres appears finally set to join Arsenal. The 27-year-old, who enjoyed a sensational season with Sporting CP, was a prime target for clubs including Chelsea, PSG, Manchester United, and Juventus. However, it is the North London club that has seemingly won the race for his signature, signaling a significant intent in strengthening their attack.
Reports from Italy suggest that an agreement between Arsenal and Sporting Lisbon is remarkably close, potentially finalized within the next 48 hours. The proposed deal is said to be worth an initial €71 million, with performance-related bonuses built in that could realistically push the total value up to €75 million. This substantial figure underscores Gyokeres`s value after his prolific spell in Portugal and represents a significant outlay for the Gunners.
This move follows Arsenal`s earlier, widely reported pursuit of RB Leipzig`s Benjamin Sesko. While Sesko ultimately decided to stay put, the swift pivot to securing Gyokeres indicates the strategic importance Arsenal placed on acquiring a high-caliber center-forward this transfer window. Gyokeres`s exceptional scoring record made him a compelling alternative.
Perhaps one of the more eye-catching details of the impending transfer circulating is the proposed salary package for Gyokeres. Arsenal is reportedly offering the striker €925,000 per month, which translates to a rather comfortable annual wage of approximately €11.1 million. While this figure is undoubtedly substantial and represents a major financial commitment, some reports note that, within the context of a Premier League giant, it might not place him among the absolute highest earners already at the club. A matter of perspective, perhaps.
For a clearer picture of the financial uplift, his reported salary at Sporting was around €2.4 million per year. This move would see his wages quadruple – a remarkable jump that many professionals outside of football could only dream of. Calling this increase “surprising” seems a bit understated; it`s a transformative change for the player, irrespective of where it ranks amongst Arsenal`s elite contracts.
Having netted consistently and impressively in Portugal, arriving with a reputation for power, pace, and finishing, Gyokeres is expected to significantly bolster Arsenal`s attacking options and provide a new dimension upfront. The substantial fee and wage packet firmly underscore the club`s belief in his ability to make an immediate and impactful contribution in the highly demanding environment of the Premier League.
Ewan Marwood