Sporting President Stands Firm on Gyökeres Amid Arsenal Transfer Standoff

Sporting CP president Frederico Varandas has made it clear that the club will not be pressured into selling Viktor Gyökeres for less than they want. Gyökeres did not show up for pre-season training, making things more tense.

According to a previous report, Viktor Gyökeres told Sporting CP he will not return for pre-season training.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Gyökeres is eager to move to Arsenal in the Premier League and has not reported for training. His stance has prompted Varandas to release a firm statement insisting clubs will need to pay their asking price or Gyökeres will stay three more years at the club. Gyökeres’s no-show has prompted a standoff between both clubs despite the player dreaming of a Premier League move.

Reports indicate that Viktor Gyökeres does not want to play for Sporting CP anymore and insists on joining Arsenal.

SPORTING AND ARSENAL: CURRENT SITUATION

Sporting just won the Portuguese title last season in the last matchday with Gyökeres’s 54 league goals attracting interest across Europe. Arsenal, who finished second in the Premier League with 70 points, are eager to make amends in their Champions League debut season with another striker target.

However, Arsenal and Sporting CP are negotiating Viktor Gyökeres’ transfer fee without agreement, as reports suggest Sporting CP demands around €69 million including add-ons for Viktor Gyökeres.

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?

Unless a deal is agreed with Arsenal, Gyökeres will continue to face disciplinary action by Sporting and form could be affected. Sporting have a Portuguese Super Cup match against bitter rivals Benfica to prepare for but have insisted the club will not bow down to demand to sell their main man on cheap. Arsenal face Manchester United on their return to the Premier League for the first time in 17 years while they continue to monitor alternatives in the transfer market.

As of now, Viktor Gyökeres scored 54 goals in 52 games for Sporting last season, strengthening his position in this ongoing transfer saga.