Viktor Gyokeres Arsenal transfer twist emerges after striker makes key 'decision'

Viktor Gyokeres has maintained his stance and has reportedly refused to travel with Sporting Clube de Portugal for their pre-season camp in the Algarve, as speculation surrounding his future intensifies.

Arsenal remain interested in securing a deal for the Swede and are working to make a breakthrough in negotiations. So far, the Gunners have signed Kepa Arrizabalaga, Martin Zubimendi, and Christian Norgaard, with Noni Madueke also expected to join from Chelsea.

Sporting director Andrea Berta has been in charge of negotiations with Sporting but so far, the Portuguese giants have stood firm in their valuation of Gyokeres. It's hoped that a fee of €80m (£69m) can be agreed, though reports indicate the current sticking point is the structure of the deal.

Amid all the delay, the 27-year-old has taken matters into his own hands. After failing to report for pre-season training on Friday, Sporting had hoped the striker would join the squad before their trip to the Algarve.

However, that has not happened according to Portuguese newspaper Record. They state that Gyokeres had 'orders to rejoin' the squad until 4:30pm on Saturday (July 12). The report highlights that he will be subject of disciplinary action from the Lions for not obliging to the regulations of the club.

Meanwhile, Fabrizio Romano also issued an update on the striker and Arsenal. "Arsenal remain in conversations with Sporting for the striker and the deal is absolutely on," he explained for CaughtOffside.

"There is still a small gap in valuation, still a gap between the two clubs, so it’s a work in progress between Arsenal and Sporting to reach an agreement.

"What's important to say is that Viktor Gyokeres will not show up in training anymore for Sporting.

"The player’s intention is very clear – it’s valid for today, tomorrow, and any other day at this stage of the summer transfer window. Gyokeres only wants to go to Arsenal. He believes his story with Sporting is over, he wants to leave the club to try something different."

In a recent interview with L'Equipe this week, Gyokeres expressed his desire to return to England. "Premier League? It's one of the biggest leagues in Europe," he declared.

"I was there for several years without being able to play a single game. So, of course it's something I'd like to do. It would be great revenge."

Asked about the possibility of leaving Sporting this summer, he added: "It could happen. It's football, you never know. I'm not thinking about it, we'll see what happens. If something has to happen, it will happen. The most important thing for me is to play for a club that really wants me."

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