Sporting CP president Frederico Varandas has issued an explosive statement on Viktor Gyokeres, who apparently went on’strike’ amidst heated transfer speculation.
Gyokeres had an extremely productive season last year, netting 54 goals in 52 appearances across all competitions.
His talents in Portugal have piqued the curiosity of various clubs, including Ruben Amorim’s Manchester United, who are expected to sign him for the 2025/26 season.
Rumours surrounding the Swedish international’s future have grown, with one report claiming he has gone on’strike’ to force a departure from Sporting this summer.
Portuguese outlet Gyokeres reportedly told manager Rui Borges and other club officials that he will never play for or wear a Sporting jersey again in an attempt to compel them to sell him.
His dissatisfaction is alleged to have stemmed from Sporting’s inaction in facilitating his sale after reaching a gentleman’s agreement on his departure last September.
Varandas has now spoken out against Gyokeres, accusing him of ‘blackmail’ in a startling response.
“I attempted to take three days off; I returned yesterday. “I saw so much information and counter-information that it is only fair that I come and explain the process,” he told Sebastiao Sousa-Pinto.
“It began last year, after the season concluded and Sporting won the national championship. During the transfer market, we learned that he would stay because there was no offer. The agent met with us to add some stipulations. Hugo Viana, like he usually did and very successfully, handled the relationship with the agents. This relationship space is created with the sports director.
“One of the agent’s main concerns was whether we would enforce the termination provision. Hugo Viana mediated with the agents over numerous meetings until they sought the president’s presence. Gyokeres did not attend this meeting, which comprised the president, the agent, and Viana. He wanted to ensure some things.
“And what was the agreement? That Sporting would not seek a release clause right now. For one reason: he was about to become 27, and no player leaves Portugal at that age for 100 or 90 million.
“At the same meeting, the agent wanted to tie the departure to a value. I said, ‘It’s not worth setting a value since I don’t know what will happen in a year.
“I’m not sure if it will be 40, 60, or 80. I assure that I will not demand R$100 million.”
The Sporting boss then revealed that they had yet to receive any offers for their prized asset, detailing the conditions that must be completed before Gyokeres’ move can be approved.
“After that, I never communicated with the agency or the player about departures or values. “Now I see the agent in the press releasing information,” he said.
“I want to make one thing clear: Sporting has common sense and follows its promises.
“Gyokeres recorded 63 goals and 10 assists. Fantastic performance. Certainly one of the best players to ever play on Portuguese soil. Sporting will not demand the provision.
“Now, Sporting will not take blackmail or insults. One thing is certain: Sporting will not accept 60 million plus ten. As of today, Sporting have not received any proposals for Gyokeres.
The 27-year-old, who previously played for Brighton before moving to Coventry City, emerged as one of Europe’s most lethal forwards after scoring 54 goals last season.
It followed a fantastic first season in Portugal, during which he scored 43 goals in 50 games under Amorim.
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