Sporting Clube de Portugal president Frederico Varandas has publicly criticised striker Viktor Gyökeres, confirming that the Swedish international will face disciplinary action after failing to report for pre-season training amid mounting speculation over a move to Arsenal.

The 27-year-old was due to return from an extended summer break on Saturday, 12 July, but failed to appear at the club’s training ground this week. Sporting, who had initially granted him additional time off, have now run out of patience.

Speaking to Portuguese news agency Lusa, Varandas confirmed the striker will receive a “hefty fine” and made it clear that the club will not bow to external pressure regarding Gyökeres’ future.

“We're calm. Everything can be resolved with the closure of the market, a hefty fine and an apology to the group,” Varandas said.

“If they don't want to pay Viktor's fair market value, we'll be very comfortable with that for the next three years.

“If the geniuses who are devising this strategy think that this puts pressure on me to make it easier for him to leave, not only are they completely wrong, but they are also making it more complicated for the player to leave.

“No one is above the interests of the club — whoever they are.”

Arsenal’s Pursuit Continues
Gyökeres is widely believed to have agreed personal terms with Arsenal, though the North London club have yet to meet Sporting’s £69 million (€80m) valuation of the prolific forward.

Mikel Arteta is eager to bolster his attacking options before Arsenal embark on their pre-season tour of Asia on 19 July, but the Portuguese giants appear in no rush to sell.

A Record of Ruthless Form
Gyökeres enjoyed a sensational 2023/24 campaign with Sporting, netting 54 goals across all competitions, cementing his reputation as one of the most in-form strikers in Europe.

Since joining the Lisbon side from Coventry City in a £20 million deal in 2023, the Swede has amassed an astonishing 97 goals in 102 appearances over two seasons. He previously spent time with Brighton & Hove Albion, but failed to make a Premier League appearance during his stint there.

Gyökeres has spoken openly about his desire to return to England, suggesting a move to the Premier League would offer personal redemption.

“It's one of the biggest leagues in Europe,” he said.
“I spent several years there without being able to play a single match. So, of course, it's something I would like to do. It would be a great revenge.”

Sporting Hold the Cards
With three years remaining on his current contract, Sporting remain in a strong negotiating position. Despite Arsenal’s interest, there is little indication the Portuguese outfit will compromise on their valuation.

As things stand, the ball remains firmly in Sporting’s court — and Gyökeres may be forced to return to Lisbon with his tail between his legs unless a resolution is reached before Arsenal’s upcoming tour.