Arsenal facing another embarrassing transfer U-turn as Viktor Gyokeres concerns emerge

Arsenal face having to tuck their tail between the legs and returning to RB Leipzig over a deal for Benjamin Sesko - after reaching an impasse with Sporting CP in negotiations for Viktor Gyokeres. Gunners transfer chiefs are said tohave left Lisbon with the clubs far apart in their valuations.

Gyokeres' pre-season return was delayed by the Portuguese champions in anticipation of getting a deal over the line, while also managing the Sweden international's threat to go on strike. But Arsenal are now believed to be willing to walk away from the deal.

And Gyokeres and his representatives are now fearing the worst over the prospects of a transfer. Arsenal have long wanted a new striker with it being a priority to add a goalscorer this summer, seeing the club turn their attention elsewhere.

The stalling of negotiations in Portugal will see the north London side reignite their interest in Sesko. Arsenal had initially advanced deals with both Sesko and Gyokeres, with the former even said to be their preferred target.

Arsenal saw a number of stumbling blocks attempting to sign the RB Leipzig striker, which saw them focus their attention on Sweden international Gyokeres. But such are the finances to sign the latter, who has already agreed personal terms with Arsenal, the Gunners are set to return for Sesko.

READ MORE: Arsenal face last-minute Eberechi Eze problem after Florian Wirtz transfer blow

READ MORE: Arsenal move for summer target has 'completely stalled' after bid rejected

Sporting director Andrea Berta is said to have initially moved on from Sesko after Leipzig would not relent on their €80m (£68.96m) asking price. Arteta's side were €10m (£8.62m) short in their offer, with the structure of the deal also proving problematic.

And an agreement with Sesko was also not straightforward. Personal terms proved to be problematic with the combination of affairs forcing Arsenal to abandon talks.

Sesko’s agent Elvis Basanovic has previously dismissed the impact of speculation that Arsenal have been interested in moves for both forwards. “Let me tell you: Sesko is not competing with anyone," he said.

"It’s him vs him every day. We have a clear plan for the future and media speculation doesn’t affect us. Sesko is not just a striker, he is a special striker."

Arteta wants to see a striker added to his squad beforeArsenal fly to Singapore for a pre-season tour of Asia on July 19. The Gunners have already confirmed deals for Kepa Arrizabalaga and Martin Zubimendi this summer as the club attempt to go better in the Premier League.

Gyokeres meanwhile, appears to have a back-up plan of his own. The ex-Coventry striker is said to remain adamant he will not play for Sporting again and will look to agree a loan deal to a European club.

Jose Mourinho's Fenerbahce side are reported to be among the teams keeping tabs on the situation. Juventus are also monitoring Gyokeres' prospects as they look to add a striker.

Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.