Sporting CP have maintained a strong stance in their ongoing transfer standoff with Arsenal over star striker Viktor Gyokeres, warning that the club will not be forced into a sale despite the player’s refusal to resume preseason training.
The Portuguese club’s president, Federico Varandas, has made it clear that they will only part ways with the Swedish international if their financial demands are met.
Arsenal have reportedly agreed personal terms with Gyokeres on a five-year contract, but their latest bid of €65 million plus €15 million in add-ons was turned down. Sporting are reportedly holding out for a higher guaranteed fee and a different deal structure.
In protest of Sporting’s firm position, Gyokeres has failed to report for preseason duties, signaling his eagerness to move to the Premier League side.
Despite this pressure, Varandas remains unfazed, stating that the club is prepared to let the player sit out for the remainder of his contract—three more years—if necessary.
Sources close to the club suggest that Sporting are willing to discipline the striker with fines and demand an apology, should the situation persist. The club insists that no player is bigger than the institution and that team interests will always come first.
With the transfer window ticking, the deadlock remains unresolved, putting Arsenal’s pursuit of Gyokeres in jeopardy unless they meet Sporting’s full valuation.
