Arsenal may have taken a big step towards finally sealing a deal for Viktor Gyokeres.
The Gunners are closing in on their fifth signing of the summer transfer window as a deal for the Swedish striker worth an initial €63.5million (£54.86m) plus a further €10m (£8.64m) in add-ons is in place.
Though the hold up is reportedly due to a debate ongoing over the nature and structure of the bonuses included.
This meant Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta was not granted his wish to have Gyokeres signed in time for Saturday’s departure for their pre-season tour of Asia, along with new arrivals Kepa Arrizabalaga, Martin Zubimendi and Christian Norgaard.
However, Sporting may be forced into reaching a full agreement sooner rather than later otherwise they risk missing out on a replacement for Gyokeres.
It has previously been reported that the Portuguese have earmarked Luis Javier Suarez to take over the mantle as chief goalscorer next season, but Almeria sporting director, Joao Goncalves, has issued a major warning.
Speaking to CNN Portugal, Goncalves said: “Luis has had his best season, he’s in the best moment of his career – 31 goals is a number any forward wants to achieve.
“We haven’t had any official contact with Sporting to date.
“We haven’t received any formal or informal contact, but we have with other clubs, and we’re moving forward with negotiations with other clubs. We’re managing our timing.
“He has a €40 million (£34.6m) release clause. To paraphrase Frederico Varandas – we’re not asking for the value of the clause, but we’re going to defend our interests.”
Suarez last season scored 27 goals, and provided eight assists, in Spain's Segunda Division. He has spent much of career in Spain, though has previously spent less successful spells with Watford and Marseille.
