Arsenal have reached a decisive breakthrough on Viktor Gyökeres, sealing what many consider a pivotal £55 million (€63.5 m) deal from Sporting CP, with the structure including around £8.5 million in add‑ons following a waiver of agent fees The Swedish striker, who lit up the Portuguese league with 54 goals last season, is poised to join the Gunners on a five‑year contract, completing Arteta’s long‑awaited acquisition of a genuine centre‑forward
But while Gyökeres’ arrival represents a statement of intent, attention is now pivoting to the fate of Xavi Simons. The Netherlands international, currently plying his trade with RB Leipzig, is reportedly “prepared to leave”—with both Arsenal and Chelsea said to be in pole position . A significant portion of this £34 million tag is expected to reinvigorate Arsenal’s flexible war-chest as they stage a potential double deal in the market.
Simons has flourished across midfield and wide midfield roles for Leipzig, tallying 21 goals last season between loan and permanent spells, and drawing comparison to elite attacking talents. His versatility—comfortable centrally or out wide—makes him a coveted asset. But the premium comes with caveats, as whispers about discipline and professionalism continue to circulate
For Arsenal, the simultaneous acquisition of a lethal striker and the possible departure of a £34 million creative star epitomises strategic transfer architecture. Gyökeres’ imminent signing promises to plug the glaring gap at centre-forward, while the Simons fund could underwrite pursuit of a high-priority No.10 or potent wideman—whether targeting Eberechi Eze, Rodrygo, or Antony Gordon . The north London club appears intent on recalibrating their offensive spine, shuffling pieces to assemble a trophy-winning core.
Arteta’s recruitment team, under the direction of sporting director Andrea Berta, seems to be balancing ambition with fiscal pragmatism. After injuring almost £186 million in summer splurges (Zubimendi, Madueke, Mosquera, Norgaard, Kepa), the club is keen to deploy funds wisely and maintain sustainable wage structure
Behind the scenes, negotiations have dragged due to fine‑print details—Sporting demanded clarity over Gyökeres’ add‑ons, including appearance triggers tied to Champions League qualification and match quotas, a £2.1 million sticking point before alignment was found However, once Gyökeres is officially on board, Arsenal’s attention will shift sharply to resolving the Simons saga—and deciding how to reinvest his price tag.
In summary, Arsenal find themselves on the cusp of one of the most ambitious transfer windows in recent memory: a statement striker acquisition and a pragmatic creative exit. With Gyökeres soon to don red and white, the Simons situation could define the final act of a summer marked by high stakes, financial finesse, and bold footballing ambition.