Sporting CP President Frederico Varandas claims attempted blackmail and threat amidst transfer of Viktor Gyokeres

The transfer saga surrounding Viktor Gyökeres has escalated significantly, with Sporting CP president Frederico Varandas claiming the striker’s agent attempted blackmail. He also ruled out any chance of a discounted transfer for the highly sought-after forward. Gyökeres, recognized as one of Europe’s most prolific strikers in recent seasons, is attracting serious interest from Premier League heavyweights Manchester United and Arsenal. Spanish club Atlético Madrid is also reportedly monitoring the 27-year-old, who is said to have a €100 million (£84.6m) release clause.

With two years in Portugal, Gyokeres has established himself as the leading striker with 97 goals in 102 appearances. According to the report, the Swedish international was costing € 70 million, but the Portuguese were not showing willingness to let him go. There were reports that there was a "gentleman's agreement" allowing Viktor to exit the club. However, the club president denied the report.

Threats, blackmail, insults, they don't work with me: Frederico Varandas claims

During the interview with O Jogo, Varandas insisted that he isn't keen to sell the striker for less fees. He further claim about blackmails and threats from the striker's agent. Sporting will not demand the release clause, but they should know me better by now: threats, blackmail, insults, they don't work with me," the club president said at an event at A BOLA for the club's museum.

"I can guarantee one thing," Varandas continued, "Viktor Gyökeres will not leave for €60 million + €10 million. He won't leave because I never allowed it, and the way his agent is playing is only making the situation worse."

Striker Viktor Gyökeres, who claimed the Golden Boot in back-to-back seasons in the Portuguese Primeira Liga, has opted to make a move to a new club this summer. Manchester United have expressed interest, presenting a potential reunion with former manager Rúben Amorim. Additionally, Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal have approached, aiming to strengthen their squad ahead of the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup.