Sporting President Issues Stern Warning to Arsenal Over Gyokeres Transfer Saga
Sporting Lisbon’s president, Frederico Varandas, has sent a clear message to Arsenal: the Portuguese giants will not be bullied into selling star striker Viktor Gyokeres for anything less than his true market value. As the summer transfer window heats up, the Gunners’ pursuit of the prolific forward has hit a stumbling block, with both clubs locked in a tense negotiation battle.
Arsenal’s Summer Shopping Spree Continues
Arsenal have been one of the busiest clubs in the transfer market this summer, already securing the signatures of Kepa Arrizabalaga, Martin Zubimendi, and Christian Norgaard. Additionally, the North Londoners are on the brink of finalizing a deal for Chelsea winger Noni Madueke, further bolstering Mikel Arteta’s squad.
However, the Gunners’ primary focus remains on strengthening their attacking options. Arsenal’s sporting director, Andrea Berta, has been working tirelessly to negotiate deals for both Gyokeres and RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko. While Gyokeres emerged as the top target, talks between Arsenal and Sporting have reached an impasse over the player’s valuation.
Gyokeres’ Stance: Arsenal or Bust
Despite the ongoing deadlock, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that the deal is still very much alive. “Arsenal remain in conversations with Sporting for the striker, and the deal is absolutely on,” Romano stated. “There is still a small gap in valuation, but both clubs are working to bridge it.”
Romano also revealed that Gyokeres has made his intentions crystal clear. The Swedish forward has refused to attend training sessions at Sporting, signaling his desire to force a move to the Emirates Stadium. “Gyokeres only wants to go to Arsenal,” Romano added. “He believes his chapter with Sporting is over and is eager to embrace a new challenge under Mikel Arteta.”
Varandas’ Defiant Response
Sporting’s president, however, remains unshaken by Gyokeres’ stance. Varandas has issued a stern warning, suggesting that the striker’s actions could lead to severe consequences. “If the masterminds behind this strategy think it pressures me to facilitate an exit, they are gravely mistaken,” Varandas declared. “No one is above the interests of the club.”
Varandas emphasized that Sporting are perfectly content to retain Gyokeres for the remaining three years of his contract unless Arsenal meet their asking price. “If they don’t want to pay fair market value, we are comfortable with keeping him,” he said. “This could end with a market closure, a heavy fine, and an apology to the club.”
Gyokeres’ Ambition: Premier League Dreams
In a recent interview with France Football, Gyokeres openly expressed his desire to return to the Premier League. The former Coventry City star is keen to join a club that values him highly. “If something is going to happen, it will happen,” Gyokeres said. “The most important thing for me is to play for a club that really wants me.”
What’s Next in the Transfer Saga?
As the clock ticks down on the transfer window, Arsenal face a crucial decision: either meet Sporting’s demands or risk missing out on one of Europe’s most sought-after strikers. With Gyokeres’ heart set on a move to North London, this high-stakes negotiation could define the Gunners’ summer.
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