Romano: Gyokeres “only wants to play for Arteta” | OneFootball

Transfer talks ongoing despite Portuguese reports

Despite recent suggestions from Portugal that discussions had stalled, Arsenal’s pursuit of Viktor Gyokeres remains very much alive. The Premier League club continues to hold active talks with Sporting CP over a potential deal for the Sweden international. Contrary to speculation, negotiations have not collapsed, though both parties are still working through a small gap in valuation.

Sources close to the situation describe the process as “ongoing” rather than “frozen”, with Arsenal determined to bring in a new forward this window and Gyokeres identified as a key target. The Gunners view the 26-year-old as an ideal profile for Mikel Arteta’s tactical setup and long-term project.

Forward’s intentions clear amid training absence

Gyokeres, who scored 43 goals in all competitions for Sporting last season, is understood to be fully committed to making the move to north London. The striker has made it clear that he will not return to training with the Lisbon-based side. This stance is not being treated as a disciplinary issue but rather a reflection of the player’s desire to advance his career.

Sources indicate that the Swede considers his time in Portugal to be over and is now fully focused on joining Arsenal. There has been no engagement from the player’s camp with other clubs, despite minor interest from elsewhere in Europe.

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Contract agreement in place with Arsenal

Arsenal already have a five-year contract agreed in principle with Gyokeres, running until 2030. This pre-agreement signals how far advanced personal terms are in the process and underlines how committed the striker is to the proposed switch.

From the player’s perspective, the project being built under Arteta holds strong appeal. Gyokeres has given his priority to Arsenal over all other options and is awaiting resolution between the clubs on the transfer fee.

Arteta’s project influencing key targets

Arteta’s growing influence in the transfer market has played a pivotal role in attracting top-level talent. Players such as Declan Rice and Kai Havertz have highlighted the Spaniard’s clarity of vision as a major factor in their decisions to join Arsenal.

That same influence appears to be impacting Gyokeres’ decision-making. The striker sees himself fitting seamlessly into Arteta’s high-intensity, possession-based style and is eager to contribute to the next stage of the club’s evolution.

While the valuation gap between Arsenal and Sporting remains a challenge, there is confidence that a compromise can be reached. Sporting’s stance has softened marginally in recent days, and there is optimism that the situation can be resolved ahead of the new season.