Arsenal set new deadline to complete Viktor Gyokeres transfer as Man United watch on
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has, reportedly, set an impending deadline for the club to finalise a deal for Viktor Gyokeres - who is admired by Manchester United.
United have been linked with a move for the Sweden striker, 27, since Ruben Amorim's arrival at Old Trafford last November. The Portuguese head coach is keen to bolster his attacking options this summer after underwhelming performances from Joshua Zirkzee and Rasmus Hojlund.
After missing out on the Premier League title, Arsenal are looking to improve their own attack to close the gap on the league leaders. Several potential targets have been identified, including RB Leipzig's Benjamin Sesko and Aston Villa's Ollie Watkins, but Sporting Clube de Portugal's Gyokeres seems to be the standout choice for Arsenal.
According to reports, they are nearing an agreement for the Sweden striker after settling personal terms. Talks are ongoing with Sporting - who are said to be holding out for a fee of around €80million (£69m) for their prized asset.
While negotiations progress, Arteta is reportedly pressing for a swift conclusion. The Mail argue that the Gunners head coach wants a new striker signed before the squad depart for their pre-season tour, in Singapore, on July 19.
The bulk of the discussions will need to be wrapped up in the week starting July 14, giving Arsenal a tight window to finalise the details of the transfer.
Sporting's president Federico Varandas has recently commented on Gyokeres' situation.
He stated: "Sporting is calm regarding this matter. Secondly, Sporting does not need to sell Gyokeres. Fortunately, we have moved past the phase of selling our main asset.
"However, we remain sensitive to Viktor's dream or those of any other athlete. Sporting has