Viktor Gyökeres Refuses Return to Sporting, Demands Arsenal Move

Viktor Gyökeres has told Sporting CP that he will not return for pre-season training. He only wants to join Arsenal this summer.

According to a previous report, he refuses to play for Sporting CP over a disagreement on a promised transfer fee.

GYOKERES DECLINES SPORTING TRAINING

The Swedish striker has told Sporting CP president Frederico Varandas that he will not attend any training sessions this summer. The striker has decided to force a move away from the club. Gyökeres – who joined Sporting from Coventry City in 2023 – delivered his message five days ago and has stayed firm on his wish to move to Arsenal. He will not return today, tomorrow or at any point in the next few weeks.

According to a previous report, he is focused on joining Arsenal and insists on not returning to Sporting CP for training.

TRANSFER SAGA DRAGS ON AMID VALUATION GAP

The talks between Sporting and Arsenal are still going on but there is still a big gap in what both clubs want for the 27-year-old striker. Sporting are demanding around £69-70 million

According to previous reports, Sporting CP requests around £69 million with add-ons for Viktor Gyökeres.

where they want at least £60-65 million up front and the rest of the price in add-ons. Arsenal are willing to match that number but the structure of the deal is stalling negotiations.

Arsenal’s interest is still strong and Gyökeres’ refusal to train adds some more pressure on Sporting’s board to reach an agreement soon. The player’s desire to join Arsenal is described as ‘clear’ and ‘concrete’ by people close to the information.

SEASON IMPACT AND WHAT’S NEXT

According to a previous report, he scored 54 goals in 52 games for Sporting last season.

According to a previous report, Sporting CP won the Primeira Liga title in the 2024-25 season.

Meanwhile, Arsenal finished as Premier League runners-up, just behind champions Liverpool, and are looking for a reliable goalscorer to boost their title-winning chances.

According to a previous report, Arsenal finished second in the Premier League last season with 70 points.

WHAT NEXT?

Sporting’s pre-season is hampered by Gyökeres’ absence and their next fixture will be a friendly as they try to defy their league win. Arsenal’s next match is their Premier League opener and there is optimism that the deal can be reached before the season starts.

Should Sporting and Arsenal not reach an agreement soon, the situation can escalate further to invite interest from other clubs or prolong the standoff.