Hamburg still waiting on Arsenal response as Fábio Vieira transfer stalls

Hamburg are continuing to wait for Arsenal to respond to their proposal for Fábio Vieira, with the Bundesliga club refusing to give up hope of signing the Portuguese midfielder permanently this summer.

Vieira impressed during a loan spell at HSV last season, prompting the newly-promoted German side to prioritise a permanent deal. However, negotiations have stalled as Arsenal continue to hold firm on their asking price.

With the midfielder entering the final year of his contract, time could yet work in Hamburg's favour.

HSV board member Eric Huwer has admitted the club have already submitted an offer but are still waiting for a response from Arsenal.

Speaking from Hamburg's pre-season training camp in Austria, Huwer said:

"We have backed up our interest with Arsenal by putting figures on the table; the matter is well known. But right now, there hasn't been any movement on their end."

Despite the uncertainty, Huwer remains optimistic that Hamburg can persuade Vieira to stay if an agreement with Arsenal is eventually reached.

"We are confident we can make Fábio a very competitive offer within our means, without taking on debt."

According to Hamburger Morgenpost, citing Sky Germany, Arsenal are demanding around €18 million for the 26-year-old.

That valuation is currently well beyond Hamburg's financial reach and has effectively brought negotiations to a standstill.

The situation is complicated by the fact Vieira's contract expires next summer, meaning this is Arsenal's final realistic opportunity to receive a transfer fee before risking losing him for nothing.

The Gunners originally paid around €35 million to sign the Portuguese playmaker in 2022.

Hamburg are understood to be remaining patient in the hope Arsenal soften their stance as the transfer deadline approaches.

If the Gunners are unable to find another buyer willing to meet their valuation, they may eventually decide to lower their demands rather than allow Vieira to enter the final months of his contract without securing a fee.

For now, though, HSV can do little more than wait for Arsenal to reopen negotiations.

Hamburg are expected to continue monitoring the situation while waiting for Arsenal's response. As the transfer window enters its final weeks, the Gunners may face a decision over whether to reduce their valuation or risk losing Vieira on a free transfer next summer.