However, the Portuguese giants are now demanding €70m (£60m/$82m) as the fixed amount and the remaining €10m (£9m/$12m) in add-ons. If Sporting stick to their stance, there is a good chance that Arsenal will ultimately end their pursuit of the 27-year-old forward.

A deal for the 27-year-old striker is not done as discussions continue over the fee — but the situation is progressing towards a conclusion.

Arsenal target Viktor Gyökeres is reported to have reacted furiously to the Sporting CP president’s assertion that the club doesn’t “need” to sell the striker.