Arsenal Closing in on Viktor Gyökeres as Andrea Berta Pushes to Finalise Deal

Arsenal’s pursuit of a new striker is reaching a crucial stage, with sporting director Andrea Berta now working to finalise a deal for Viktor Gyökeres, who is edging closer to agreeing personal terms with the North London club. According to reports, Gyökeres is keen on a move to the Emirates Stadium, and Arsenal are hopeful a transfer can be completed in the coming weeks.

The Swedish international has been a standout performer for Sporting CP, and his form in Portugal has attracted significant attention from across Europe. Arsenal, however, have long admired the 26-year-old and appear to be leading the race for his signature.

Player Wants the Move

One of the most encouraging signs for Arsenal is Gyökeres’ desire to make the switch. Sources close to the player suggest he is excited by the opportunity to join Arsenal, work under Mikel Arteta, and compete at the highest level of European football.

Personal terms are now close to being finalised, with Gyökeres reportedly satisfied with the project being built at Arsenal, the playing style under Arteta, and the club’s ambitions heading into the 2025/26 season.

Berta Working Behind the Scenes

Andrea Berta, who took over as Arsenal’s sporting director earlier this year, is believed to be heavily involved in negotiations. He has been leading discussions with Sporting CP and the player’s representatives and is working to strike a deal that fits within the club’s financial structure.

Sporting, however, have so far remained firm in their valuation, pointing to a release clause north of €100 million. Despite this, Berta is hopeful of reaching a compromise figure closer to €70 million, which would represent significant value in today’s inflated striker market.

The Portuguese club has made it clear they will not allow Gyökeres to leave for less than what they consider fair, but Arsenal’s approach — and the player’s desire — could help accelerate negotiations.

Arsenal’s Summer Plans Taking Shape

Gyökeres is seen as one of Arsenal’s top striker targets, alongside RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Šeško. However, Gyökeres is now considered the more attainable option, especially with Šeško’s situation complicated by interest from other top clubs and a higher release clause.

Arteta is determined to add a prolific centre-forward to his squad this summer. Despite the team’s progress last season, the lack of a consistent goal-scorer in tight matches was a concern. Gyökeres, with his blend of physicality, movement, and finishing, is viewed as a player who could thrive in the Premier League and bring a new dimension to Arsenal’s attack.

A Deal on the Horizon?

While nothing is signed yet, all signs point to Arsenal moving into the final stages of negotiations. With the player on board and Berta pressing for a reasonable deal, there is growing confidence in North London that Gyökeres will be wearing red and white next season.

Should the deal be completed, it would represent another bold step in Arsenal’s push to challenge for major honours — and provide Arteta with the firepower his exciting side needs.