Mikel Arteta determined to bring Viktor Gyokeres to Arsenal

    Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has issued a firm deadline for the club to sign of a new striker, with Sporting Lisbon's Viktor Gyokeres identified as the "outstanding candidate".

    Viktor Gyokeres Viktor Gyokeres

    According to Mail Online, Arteta wants the deal wrapped up before the Gunners depart for their pre-season tour to Singapore on 19 July, setting up a critical window during the week beginning 14 July for final negotiations.

    Arsenal have reportedly already agreed personal terms with Gyokeres, but discussions with Sporting Lisbon over a transfer fee remain ongoing. The Portuguese club are said to be demanding around 69 million pounds for the Sweden international, who starred in the Primeira Liga last season.

    Sporting president Frederico Varandas recently addressed Gyokeres' future, openly referencing Arsenal's interest - a rare and telling admission that signals the Lisbon side's willingness to negotiate.

    "Sporting is calm regarding this matter," said Varandas.

    "Secondly, Sporting does not need to sell Viktor Gyokeres. Fortunately, we have moved past the phase of selling our main asset.

    "However, we remain sensitive to Viktor's dreams or those of any other athlete. Sporting has made a commitment that, after weeks of meetings, we will not demand the full amount of the clause; we will be reasonable regarding the amount requested for Viktor.

    "Today, there is a strong likelihood that he will leave. I won't disclose the amount, but the player knows what it is. I can say that Viktor will not leave for 60+10m. He won't leave, absolutely not.

    "In recent weeks, we have been paying attention. I saw a player, Zubimendi, who is six months younger than Viktor, go for 65 million, and I saw Matheus Cunha move to Manchester United for around 75 million euros.

    "We are talking about players who are 26 years old. I believe Viktor could leave, unless he has the worst agent in the world, which I don't believe, as his agent is one of the best in the world."

    Despite the ongoing talks, the Gunners are determined to move swiftly to ensure the new forward integrates before the season begins.

    While Gyokeres remains Arsenal's primary target, the club are also monitoring alternatives, including RB Leipzig's Benjamin Sesko and Aston Villa's Ollie Watkins. However, Arteta views Gyokeres as the ideal fit to lead the line as Arsenal look to strengthen their title credentials.