Critical 24 hours! Arsenal close to finalize Gyökeres deal ahead of Asia tour

Arsenal is reportedly on the cusp of securing a major summer signing, with a full agreement for Sporting Lisbon forward Viktor Gyökeres anticipated within the next 24 hours. Sources have indicated to BBC Sport that a club-to-club deal for the highly sought-after Swedish international, valued at €73.5 million (£63.5m) including add-ons, is now largely in place, with only minor details left to be resolved.

All parties involved are working diligently to ensure the transfer is completed swiftly, aiming for Gyökeres to join the Gunners as they embark on their pre-season tour to Asia at the end of the week. This improved offer from Arsenal, which surpasses their previous proposal of €70 million (£60m), underscores their determination to bring the prolific striker to the Emirates. Gyökeres, 27, has already agreed to personal terms on a five-year deal, signaling his commitment to the North London club.

BBC Sport first revealed at the beginning of the month how Arsenal had shifted their focus to Gyökeres after encountering an impasse in their efforts to sign Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig. To spearhead negotiations with Sporting, Arsenal's sporting director Andrea Berta reportedly flew to Lisbon towards the end of last week, underscoring the club's serious intent.

Adding a twist to the transfer narrative, Sporting's president, Frederico Varandas, confirmed over the weekend that Gyökeres was facing disciplinary action for failing to report for pre-season training. As of now, the player has not publicly explained his absence. Varandas, speaking to Portuguese news agency Lusa, emphasized the club's stance, stating firmly that "no one is above the interests of the club."

Gyökeres's impressive goal-scoring record makes him a prime target for Arsenal. The former Brighton and Coventry striker has netted an astonishing 97 goals in 102 matches during his two seasons in Portugal, a phenomenal output that played a crucial role in firing Sporting to two league titles. Last season alone, he boasted an incredible 54 goals in 52 appearances across all competitions, showcasing his consistent ability to find the back of the net. His imminent arrival is expected to significantly bolster Arsenal's attacking prowess as they prepare for the upcoming season.