The long running saga involving Arsenal’s attempt to sign Sporting striker Viktor Gyokeres appears to have been resolved with a €63.5million [£55m] deal with €10m [£8.7m] in add-ons now agreed.
Gyokeres has now been given permission to undergo a medical within 24 hours before his move to Arsenal is finally completed.
A last minute attempt by Manchester United to offer more money and hijack the deal fell by the wayside as the player made it clear he was only interested in joining the Gunners.
So what was holding up the deal up?
talkSPORT transfer correspondent Ben Jacobs lifted the lid on the saga, explaining that the two clubs were quibbling over €2.5m [£2.1m] of the €10m [£8.7m] in add-ons.
“Sporting not only wanted them to be easier, but also had some pushback on the overall payment terms of the fixed part of the fee.
“Arsenal wanted to pay it in four [instalments], Sporting wanted it in two, they’ve reached a compromise.
“So, Gyokeres is now waiting for permission to undergo his medical. There may be a sell-on clause as well that still needs to be finalised.
“But this is basically a done deal, it’s not in doubt. Sporting tried to be tough negotiators and even invite hijacks.
“Manchester United didn’t bite, they didn’t want to bid, and Viktor Gyokeres will now be an Arsenal player, it’s a matter of when, not if.
“So next step, permission to travel is expected within the next 24 hours, he’ll undergo his medical and then finally, Arsenal will get their No. 9.”
