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The football world has been thrown into mourning following the tragic death of former Arsenal goalkeeper Alex Manninger, who reportedly died at the age of 48 after his car was struck by a train. According to multiple international media reports, the incident occurred at a railway crossing in Austria, where Manninger’s vehicle was hit in a devastating collision. Emergency responders arrived swiftly at the scene, but efforts to revive him proved unsuccessful. Manninger, a former Austrian international, enjoyed a distinguished career across Europe, featuring for top clubs including Arsenal and Juventus. He was part of the Arsenal squad under Arsène Wenger during the late 1990s, contributing to the club’s domestic successes and earning admiration for his composure and professionalism. Tributes have begun pouring in from across the football community, with former teammates, clubs, and fans expressing shock and grief over the sudden loss. Wenger, who managed Manninger during his time in Nort...

Arsenal Close In on Viktor Gyökeres Signing as Personal Terms Agreed


  

By Oriontimes Sports Desk



LONDON – Arsenal are edging closer to securing the blockbuster signing of Swedish striker Viktor Gyökeres from Sporting CP, with the player having already agreed personal terms on a five-year contract with the North London giants.



Sources close to the negotiations revealed that the 26-year-old goal machine is keen on the move to the Premier League, and has gone as far as waiving over £1.7 million in wages to help facilitate the transfer.



The Gunners are believed to have submitted a formal offer in the region of £56–60 million plus add-ons, falling just short of Gyökeres’ £86 million release clause. Sporting CP are holding out for closer to £70 million but negotiations remain advanced and positive.



Gyökeres, who netted an astonishing 54 goals in 52 appearances last season across all competitions, has emerged as Arsenal’s top summer transfer target, as manager Mikel Arteta looks to bolster his attacking options ahead of a title challenge in the upcoming campaign.



The former Coventry City and Brighton striker has reportedly been given extended leave from pre-season training by Sporting, adding fuel to speculation that a deal is imminent.


According to Italian journalist Nicolò Schira, the striker has agreed to personal terms on a five-year deal, with his salary package already finalized. Arsenal are now pushing to finalize a fee agreement in the coming days.


If completed, the deal would mark Arsenal’s first major signing of the summer and a strong signal of intent ahead of the 2025/26 season.


 What They’re Saying


 “Gyökeres has shown he is ready for a bigger stage. His physicality, movement, and finishing ability make him a perfect fit for Arsenal’s style,” said a source close to the club.




Player Profile: Viktor Gyökeres


Age: 26


Nationality: Sweden


Current Club: Sporting CP


2024/25 Season Stats: 54 goals, 12 assists


Previous Clubs: Coventry City, Brighton & Hove Albion




What’s Next?


With personal terms agreed, all eyes are on Arsenal’s board and Sporting CP to finalize the transfer fee. Should the deal go through, Gyökeres is expected to undergo a medical and sign official documents in London within the week.



Stay tuned to Oriontimes for all the latest on this developing story.

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