Initially, Arsenal made a €50m offer plus €10m in bonuses for Gyokeres on Friday. However, Sporting CP rejected the bid, citing that they will not sell the Swedish striker for less than €80m.
Despite not being tied to a buyout clause, Sporting CP's stance on Gyokeres' valuation has left Arsenal with no choice but to look elsewhere. The club's previous attempt to sign Watkins in January was unsuccessful.
It is expected that Aston Villa will demand around £80m to sell Watkins this summer. Arsenal's interest in the England international forward may lead to a renewed bid from the Gunners.
The situation highlights the challenges that football clubs face in negotiating transfer fees and securing the signings of top players.
