Fábio Vieira waiting for Hamburg move as Arsenal hold key despite Besiktas interest

Fábio Vieira is reportedly prioritising a permanent return to Hamburg, despite receiving interest from Besiktas, with Arsenal's response to the Bundesliga club's offer now the biggest obstacle to a deal.

The Portuguese midfielder spent last season on loan at Hamburg and is understood to be keen on returning, leaving the German club waiting for Arsenal to decide whether they are prepared to lower their demands.

According to reports, Besiktas have approached Vieira over a possible move this summer.

However, the Arsenal midfielder is said to favour a return to Hamburg, where he enjoyed a season-long loan spell, and is prepared to wait while the Bundesliga side continue negotiations with the Gunners.

Vieira is not believed to have a realistic pathway back into Arsenal's first-team plans, making a permanent departure the most likely outcome before the transfer window closes.

With Vieira's contract running until 2027, Arsenal are keen to secure a transfer fee this summer rather than risk seeing his value decline further.

The Premier League club are reportedly seeking around €18 million, but no club has yet matched that valuation.

Hamburg remain interested but are unlikely to compete financially with some of Vieira's other suitors, leaving Arsenal in a position where they must decide whether to lower their asking price or continue waiting for a stronger offer.

Hamburg have already confirmed that an offer has been submitted for the 25-year-old.

Speaking from the club's pre-season training camp on 30 July, board member Eric Huwer admitted negotiations had stalled because Arsenal had yet to respond.

"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 lack of progress, Huwer expressed confidence that Hamburg could convince Vieira to stay permanently if an agreement is eventually reached.

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

Vieira's determination to return to Hamburg could ultimately prove significant in negotiations, but Arsenal's valuation remains the biggest hurdle. Unless the Gunners soften their demands or another club matches their asking price, the transfer could remain at a standstill.

Hamburg are expected to continue discussions with Arsenal in an attempt to bridge the gap between their offer and the Premier League club's valuation. If Arsenal maintain their reported €18m asking price, Besiktas or another interested club could yet enter the race. For now, however, Vieira is reportedly prepared to wait in the hope that Hamburg can complete a permanent deal.

Should Arsenal lower their asking price to allow Fábio Vieira to return to Hamburg, or hold out for a bigger transfer fee?