Viktor Gyokeres' future at Sporting CP is hanging in the balance after a reported fallout with club president Frederico Varandas over a previously agreed transfer deal. The Swedish striker is said to feel betrayed after Varandas apparently reneged on a gentleman's agreement to let him leave the club for €60 million (£50.8m) plus €10m in bonuses this summer. Instead, the president is now reportedly demanding €80 million, leaving Gyokeres "incensed".
According to reports, the 27-year-old has informed Sporting CP that he will not play for them again. He believes the agreement, which has been in place since September, is now being disrespected. While there has been no official response from the club, Varandas is expected to address the situation publicly. Gyokeres is reportedly prepared to interrupt his holiday in Sweden and voice his side of the story if there is no resolution, showing his frustration.
Several top European clubs, including Manchester United and Arsenal, are reportedly interested in acquiring the prolific striker. However, Gyokeres has already turned down a lucrative offer from Al-Hilal, as he prefers to continue playing in Europe. While Juventus has also been mentioned as a potential destination, their ability to meet his salary demands may be limited. This leaves the Premier League as the most likely destination, with Arsenal reportedly leading the race.
The situation has escalated to the point where Gyokeres is reportedly threatening to go on strike to force a transfer. He is said to be furious that Sporting CP is demanding more than the initially agreed-upon fee. Gyokeres had an outstanding 2024/25 season, scoring 54 goals in 52 appearances and helping Sporting to a league and cup double. His impressive performances have made him a highly sought-after player in the transfer market.
Adding fuel to the fire, reports indicate that Gyokeres has removed Sporting CP from his social media accounts, further suggesting a breakdown in his relationship with the club. The Sporting CP president denies the existence of a "gentleman's agreement" that would allow Gyokeres to leave for £59m. He maintains that the club has not received any offers for the player and that the only promise made to Gyokeres was that they would not demand his full release clause of €100m (£85m). He claims that while Gyokeres' agent sought assurances about a lower asking price, he was unwilling to commit to specific numbers.
With the situation still developing, it remains to be seen whether a compromise can be reached or if Gyokeres will indeed leave Sporting CP this summer.
