Arsenal have reportedly paused their pursuit of Sporting Lisbon striker Viktor Gyokeres after growing frustrated with the Portuguese club’s firm stance on his £85 million release clause.
The Gunners made two unsuccessful bids for the Swedish forward — first at £55 million and then £60 million — but Sporting remain unwilling to negotiate below the full buyout fee. Despite Gyokeres reportedly favouring a move to the Emirates over Manchester United, Arsenal are reluctant to enter a prolonged bidding war.
According to Portuguese outlet Record, Arsenal are now reigniting interest in Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins, who has been on their radar for months. The North London club made an £80 million approach for Watkins in January, which Villa rejected as he was their only fit senior striker at the time following Jhon Duran’s exit.
With transfer funds limited and a desire to avoid another drawn-out saga, Arsenal are also considering a move for RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko, who represents a more affordable alternative if they can outbid interest from Bayern Munich and Al-Hilal.
The Gunners’ need for a top striker remains pressing as Mikel Arteta looks to bolster his attacking options ahead of the 2025/26 Premier League campaign.
