Viktor Gyokeres transfer drama explained as tensions rise after 'messages exchanged'

There has been a lot of drama surrounding Viktor Gyokeresin recent days as speculation over his future continues amid links to Arsenal.

The 27-year-old striker has long been linked with a move to the Premier League, and although it once seemed he might get his wish, that now appears increasingly unlikely. On Sunday, journalists gathered at the Estadio Jose Alvalade for Sporting's General Assembly, where questions about Gyokeres dominated the conversation.

"Sporting is very calm about Gyokeres, Sporting does not need to sell Gyokeres," Varandas said. "We have already passed the stage where we had to sell our best assets. We do not have to sell him. In the same way that we do not have to sell him, we are still sensitive to Viktor's dreams. Sporting has a commitment, made by the president, not to ask for the value of the termination clause and to be reasonable in relation to Viktor's performance last season.

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"If you ask me today, there is a strong possibility that Viktor will leave. We have been keeping an eye on the market, I saw a player like [Martin] Zubimendi, who is six months younger than Viktor, go to Arsenal for €65million (£55million). I saw two players being sold in the Premier League - Matheus Cunha and [Bryan] Mbeumo - forwards who do not have the quality of Viktor, in my opinion, were sold for around €70million. We are talking about players who are 26 years old. So, given the demands we are making in relation to Viktor's value, I believe he could leave, unless he has the worst agent in the world. Which I find hard to believe. I won't say what the price we asked for. It was communicated to the agent.

Varandas continued: "But I can guarantee that Viktor will not leave for €60million plus €10million. Viktor already knows and I want Sporting fans to take advantage of this summer, in which they are two-time champions, in which they have a double, to celebrate, to be calm. There are only two scenarios: one club respects the price requested by Sporting and Viktor will fulfil his dream, and from that moment we will be ready to attack the targets, or that club does not want Viktor, and Viktor, with a three-year contract, stays at Sporting and we will be very happy."

Those comments are said to have not gone down well with the player himself, and Portuguese newspaper Record has reported on the latest developments.

Speaking out in public

The newspaper highlights Varandas' remarks about the transfer process have caused deep displeasure for the Swedish striker, who 'directly confronted' the Lions' president.

During the exchange of messages, Gyokeres reportedly conveyed three main ideas. The striker supposedly feels that Varandas has 'left him no alternative' but to come out in public to clarify the situation.

Record understands that Gyokeres informed Varandas he will speak to the media as he reputedly feels this is the time to do so.

Sporting return 'off the table'

The second point Gyokeres raised in his message exchange with Varandas was the issue of returning to Sporting.

As Record reported, he has no intention of presenting himself and in one of his messages sent on Sunday afternoon, he firmly informed the president that he will not return to the club. Specifically, he is thought to have stated he will not travel to Lisbon on July 6 or report for training the following day, as originally scheduled.

'Tired' of the situation

Finally, the third message Gyokeres shared with the Sporting president after hearing his earlier remarks was that he is 'tired' - a term a source close to the player used when speaking to Record.

Gentleman's agreement

football.london previously reported on a 'gentleman’s agreement' that would allow Gyokeres to leave Sporting before the end of his contract for a fee below his €100 million (£84m) release clause.

Earlier this month, Varandas dismissed claims of a €60m (£51m) plus €10m (£8m) in add-ons exit this summer. "I can guarantee that Viktor Gyokeres will not leave for €60+€10m (in add-ons) because I never promised him that," he said.

Arsenal transfer latest

football.london understands that Arsenal have been long-time admirers of Gyokeres, with their interest tracing back to his time at Coventry City in the Championship.

The Gunners' sporting director, Andrea Berta, is also believed to be a 'big fan'. However, as it stands, Arsenal have yet to submit an 'official offer.'

That said, recent reports suggest the Gunners are exploring alternative options to strengthen their attack, although the Swedish striker remains on their radar should a move for Benjamin Sesko fail to materialise.