Arsenal close in on £70m Gyokeres deal after Portugal talks

Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta has held face-to-face talks with Sporting Lisbon in Portugal as the club closes in on a deal for striker Viktor Gyokeres.

BBC Sport revealed last Thursday that the Gunners had intensified their pursuit of the Sweden international, and sources now suggest Berta flew to Lisbon late last week to accelerate negotiations.

The proposed transfer fee for Gyokeres, 27, is expected to be in the region of £70m, and an agreement on personal terms is seen as a formality.

It is unclear whether Berta has returned to London, but his Portugal visit signals Arsenal’s determination to wrap up the deal swiftly as they seek to bolster their attack ahead of the new season.

Norgaard and Madueke updates

In addition to Gyokeres, Brentford captain Christian Norgaard is set to complete his move to the Emirates in the coming days.

The two clubs have agreed a fee worth up to £15m for the Denmark international midfielder, who will add depth and experience to Mikel Arteta’s midfield options.

Meanwhile, Arsenal are considering whether to advance their interest in Chelsea attacker Noni Madueke.

Personal terms with the versatile England winger, 23, have already been agreed, and Chelsea are aware of the Gunners’ interest.

What’s next for Arsenal?

The Gunners have already secured the £60m signing of Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad this summer, with the pursuit of Gyokeres representing their top priority in this transfer window.

Arteta’s side is eager to strengthen its squad as they aim to go one step further in their Premier League title challenge and make a deeper run in the Champions League.