Gunners Shift Focus to Sesko and Watkins as Sporting Lisbon’s Valuation Proves Too Steep
Arsenal have reportedly ended their pursuit of Sporting Lisbon striker Viktor Gyokeres after balking at the Portuguese club’s €80 million (£68m) asking price, according to reports from Record. The Gunners, eager to strengthen their attack this summer, are now turning their attention to RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko and Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins as more affordable alternatives.
Gyokeres, 27, has been in sensational form since joining Sporting last season, netting an astonishing 97 goals in just 102 appearances across all competitions. His remarkable rise comes after struggling for minutes at Brighton and later making his mark in England’s Championship with Coventry City.
Despite Arsenal’s initial interest, the steep valuation appears to have forced a change in strategy. The club is now weighing up moves for Sesko, the 21-year-old Slovenian prodigy with a €65 million (£55m) release clause, or Watkins, Villa’s Premier League-proven forward, who would likely command a similar fee.
Manchester United Still in the Mix?
Recent reports had suggested Gyokeres preferred a move to the Emirates over Manchester United, but transfer insider Ben Jacobs has dismissed those claims, insisting the Red Devils remain a viable option. The Swedish striker himself has remained tight-lipped, only stating last week: “There’s a lot of talk at the moment, most of it is false. I will speak when the time is right.” (via Fabrizio Romano).
What’s Next for Arsenal?
With Gyokeres seemingly off the table, Mikel Arteta’s side must now decide between Sesko’s high potential and Watkins’ top-flight experience. The Gunners are determined to avoid a repeat of last summer’s drawn-out striker hunt, which saw them miss out on key targets late in the window.
As the transfer saga unfolds, Sporting Lisbon’s firm stance on Gyokeres’ fee could see other European giants enter the race—or force the striker to stay put for another year. For now, Arsenal’s search for a new No. 9 continues, with Sesko and Watkins emerging as the leading candidates.
More updates to follow as the summer transfer window heats up.
Similar Posts:
- Arsenal Prepare Formal Bid for Sporting Star Gyokeres After Agent Talks
- Roy Keane Warns Arsenal Against Ollie Watkins Move: “Maybe Villa Is His Level”
- Manchester United Eye Summer Move for Viktor Gyokeres as Striker Search Continues
- Juventus Make Bold Move for Gyokeres as Arsenal’s Pursuit Stalls
- I’m Not a Fortune Teller – Gyokeres Plays Coy as Arsenal Move Rumors Intensify
