Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta is very angry with Ruben Amorim for hijacking his top transfer target.
Mikel Arteta is reportedly furious after another frustrating transfer setback, this time involving Sporting CP boss Ruben Amorim. The Arsenal manager had been working diligently to secure a key signing, only to see his efforts undone at the last moment. Arteta’s frustration was evident, as he made it clear that this particular hijack stung more than previous ones.
Although he didn’t explicitly name the player, speculation suggests that Arsenal were close to signing Viktor Gyökeres, a Swedish striker who has been in top form for Sporting CP. Reports indicate that Amorim played a crucial role in convincing the player to remain in Portugal, dealing a heavy blow to Arsenal’s transfer plans. This isn’t the first time the club has been on the losing end of a last-minute intervention, and it has left fans questioning their approach in the market.
Transfer hijacks have become increasingly common, with clubs willing to outbid or offer more enticing sporting projects to sway players at the final moment. Arsenal have been victims of this trend on multiple occasions, with several high-profile targets slipping through their grasp. The inability to close deals efficiently has been a growing concern, particularly when competing with clubs that have stronger financial backing or a more immediate pathway to success.
Ruben Amorim’s influence in the Portuguese market is undeniable, and if reports are accurate, he was instrumental in blocking Arsenal’s move. Whether it was through a better contract offer, Sporting’s ambitions, or the promise of a more prominent role, the deal fell apart at the critical stage. Additionally, player agents often shift negotiations at the last moment, which could have further complicated Arsenal’s pursuit.
This setback forces Arsenal to rethink their transfer approach as they continue their push for squad improvements. Arteta and sporting director Edu Gaspar will need to act swiftly to secure alternative options before the window closes. With the Premier League title race heating up, missing out on a key target could prove costly, making it essential for the club to move quickly in securing reinforcements.
Fans have voiced their frustration over yet another transfer failure, urging the club to be more decisive. Former Arsenal striker Ian Wright emphasized the need for efficiency in negotiations, while Sky Sports analyst Jamie Carragher acknowledged the realities of modern football but stressed the importance of a quick recovery.
Despite the setback, Arsenal still have opportunities to strengthen before the window shuts. Arteta’s frustration reflects how crucial this signing was to his plans, but the club must now shift focus and ensure they don’t fall behind in their transfer objectives. The coming weeks will be pivotal, and supporters will be watching closely to see how Arsenal responds to yet another test in the transfer market.
