Sporting CP president Frederico Varandas has dismissed reports that Viktor Gyokeres could leave the club this summer for a reduced fee, dealing a blow to interested clubs including Manchester United and Arsenal.
The 27-year-old Swedish striker is coming off a phenomenal season, scoring 97 goals in 102 matches for the Portuguese champions. His form has attracted interest from top Premier League sides, but Sporting are standing firm.
While previous reports suggested a £59 million agreement had been made to facilitate his departure, Varandas firmly denied this, stating:
“There is no such agreement in place.”
Gyokeres’ contract includes an £85 million release clause, and Varandas hinted that any club wishing to sign him must meet that valuation.
Although a reunion with former Sporting coach Ruben Amorim at Old Trafford has been speculated, Varandas made clear that Gyokeres remains central to their plans and that no decision on a “discounted” sale has been made.
With three years left on his deal and now in his prime, any move for Gyokeres will likely require a significant investment.
