Arsenal make final decision on Gyokeres as ‘hugely frustrating’ Sesko transfer issue emerges…

Arsenal has reached a final conclusion regarding Gyokeres as a ‘hugely frustrating’ issue with the Sesko transfer arises.

The Gunners are reportedly preparing a ‘formal proposal’ for Viktor Gyokeres, a striker from Sporting CP, amidst complications surrounding a potential transfer for Benjamin Sesko.

This summer, Arsenal has been eager to secure a new centre-forward, following calls from fans, analysts, and former players for a significant investment in their attacking lineup over the past few years.

The need for a striker is critical for Arsenal, as their inability to sign one in previous transfer windows negatively impacted their performance in the 2024/25 season.

Mikel Arteta and sporting director Andrea Berta are actively pursuing several candidates.

Over the weekend, Florian Plettenberg, a reporter for Sky Germany, expressed his strong belief that Sesko will join Arsenal next season.

On Tuesday, Plettenberg provided another update via X, stating: ‘Two clubs from Saudi Arabia are making efforts to sign Benjamin #Sesko! However, his preference is clear: he wishes to remain in Europe.

#Arsenal and Sesko are negotiating the details to finalize an agreement. The deal is progressing.’

However, a report from TBR Football on Wednesday indicated that there are now ‘concerns’ from Sesko’s camp that Arsenal may prioritize a deal for Gyokeres, as Leipzig remains steadfast on their valuation of the Slovenian international.

The report further noted that the 22-year-old is ‘hugely frustrated’ by Leipzig’s firm stance on their valuation, especially after his representatives ‘thought they had an agreement to transfer for less than €70m (£59m)’, while the German club is now demanding a total deal worth €80m (£67m).

Fabrizio Romano mentioned in his GiveMeSport newsletter: “The race for Gyokeres is wide open.

“He is still on Arsenal’s radar in case the Sesko deal falls through, and Manchester United has reached out to his agents again over the weekend.”

Additionally, the Portuguese newspaper A Bola reported that Sesko’s agent, Hasan Çetinkaya, ‘met with the London club to discuss the conditions and requirements for formalizing a proposal with Sporting’ on Wednesday.

Arsenal have made progress as they are set to establish ‘official contacts’ with Sporting CP, and the Gunners are expected to be the first club to present a solid and formal offer for the acquisition of Gyokeres.

Arteta’s team is eager to expedite the process concerning the recruitment of an attacking reference, and it will be essential to elevate the offer to €60m plus €10m to persuade Frederico Varandas to initiate negotiations.

The subsequent step is to advance to direct discussions to achieve a consensus among all parties involved with Gyokeres – who Arsenal has consistently monitored – being regarded as a ‘valuable asset’ for the Gunners to finalize a deal.

Former Arsenal forward Paul Dickov asserts that there are “positive indicators” for the Gunners that Sesko could be a favorable signing if they opt for him over Gyokeres.

Dickov shared with BestBettingSites.com: “He’s among the few strikers in the sport who truly embodies a classic, out-and-out No. 9. He possesses height, speed, and strength for a player of his stature. His technical skills are impressive, and he finds the back of the net frequently.

“Given his age, one would assume there’s significant potential for growth. He has a solid background in the Bundesliga and performed well when given a chance in the Champions League, which bodes well for Arsenal.

“However, the challenge for Arsenal in securing a world-class number nine is that they are extremely difficult to acquire. Any player entering the Premier League will require time to adapt.

“They’ve been associated with players like Sesko, Alvarez, Osimhen, and Gyokeres – it’s clear they intend to sign someone – and whoever it may be must be ready to make an immediate impact, as there will be considerable attention on the player they choose to sign.

“The one aspect Arsenal has lacked over the past few years, which is quite evident, is a striker. The challenge now is to successfully bring one of them into the club.