Arsenal beat United to land Viktor Gyökeres in €74M deal

Bonus clauses resolved, deal completed

In recent weeks, the Viktor Gyökeres saga had become one of the most discussed transfer stories in European football. Despite ups and downs between clubs and the player’s camp, the deal is now nearing its conclusion. Arsenal’s persistence and strategic patience were key in navigating the critical stages of negotiation. Gyökeres’ firm commitment to joining Arsenal from the very beginning proved decisive in shaping the final outcome.

Arsenal have reached full agreement with Sporting CP for the transfer of Viktor Gyökeres. According to The Athletic, the prolonged talks, previously stalled due to performance-based bonuses, were finally resolved as both parties came to terms.

Manchester United were in the race, but Gyökeres stood firm

The core of the deal had been agreed weeks ago, but Arsenal’s proposed bonus structure raised doubts on Sporting’s side. This impasse opened the door for Manchester United to make a move. However, Gyökeres consistently made it clear that Arsenal was his only destination. That stance ultimately shaped the transfer path.

“Despite agreeing the basic framework of a move for Gyökeres weeks ago, Arsenal and Sporting found themselves butting heads over the nature of the add-ons proposed by the Gunners, which invited pressure of a potential hijack from long-term admirers Manchester United. Gyökeres, however, has remained determined with his desire to join Arsenal, repeatedly informing all suitors he was only considering a move to the Emirates Stadium.” — The Athletic

Agent waives €6.5 million fee

With the bonus clause settled, talks reached an advanced stage. To help finalise the move, Gyökeres’ agent voluntarily gave up his €6.5 million commission.

“Gyökeres’s agent has also waived his commission for the deal in order to help things progress. €6.5 million, according to Record.” — Record

The gesture not only helped facilitate the transfer but also strengthened the relationship with Arsenal’s board. Forgoing a substantial financial fee created a sense of mutual trust between the club and the player’s camp. The decision shaped a positive climate at the negotiating table and contributed directly to the smooth closure of the deal.

Five-year deal worth €74.2 million

The agreement totals €63.5 million plus €10 million in bonuses. That makes around €74.2 million overall. A five-year contract is on offer. Gyökeres is expected to travel to England soon for his medical and to complete the signing.

“Arsenal will pay an initial €63.5 million plus a further €10 million in performance-related bonuses.” — The Athletic
“A five-year contract is on the table for Gyökeres, who will soon be cleared to travel and put the finishing touches on his long-awaited move to Arsenal.” — The Athletic

Mosquera deal done, awaiting announcement

Additionally, young centre-back Cristhian Mosquera has completed a move from Valencia. While the official announcement is pending, Mosquera is set to join Arsenal’s pre-season camp in Singapore. Gyökeres is expected to follow shortly.

“Valencia centre-back Cristhian Mosquera’s arrival is simply awaiting public confirmation. Mosquera is due to join up with Mikel Arteta’s squad on their pre-season tour of Singapore, with Gyökeres hopefully arriving in the coming days.” — The Athletic

Gyökeres profile: modern evolution of a classic No.9

Gyökeres played 52 matches last season, scoring 54 goals and delivering 13 assists. This made him one of the most talked-about forwards in Europe. Blending explosive pace with upper-body strength, he breaks lines both in short bursts and long sprints. Unafraid of physical battles and able to stay upright in duels, he offers major advantages in attack. He is also a threat in the air, with timing and leap ability that make him dangerous during set-pieces and open play. With both positional intelligence and clinical finishing, he brings a modern edge to the classic No.9 role.

When receiving the ball with his back to goal, he maintains balance and breaks free from markers, disrupting defensive organisation. By keeping control of the ball in these moments, he helps attacks mature and creates space for teammates. His instinctive positioning inside the box regularly sets him apart, and his conversion rate is notably high. He is seen as a direct match for the striker profile Arsenal are targeting. A finisher who caps off fast breaks, carries play when needed and leads the line with purpose.

His ability to play with his back to goal and remain physically strong creates room for wingers like Martinelli and Saka to push forward. This can enhance passing connections in attacking transitions and increase the chances of unsettling the opponent’s defensive shape. Gyökeres combines ball-carrying ability with intelligent runs in behind, bringing dynamism to the final third. This tactical flexibility aligns perfectly with Arsenal’s attacking structure.

In Arteta’s system, which is known for pace and vertical play, a striker of this profile is well-suited to play a decisive role. At Sporting, Gyökeres stood out with his physical output and spatial awareness. In Arsenal’s possession-based game, he could serve as both a space creator and exploiter. This brings multi-dimensional value to the front line.

Gyökeres could be the final piece in Arsenal’s title pursuit

Arsenal may have finally found a lasting solution to their centre-forward dilemma. Once the deal is made official, Gyökeres is expected to be recognised not only for his finishing ability but also for his intelligent runs, link-up play, and relationship with the flanks. His profile provides a central attacking solution that aligns well with the pace of the Premier League and can help Arsenal translate title ambitions into on-pitch dominance.