Sporting CP issue statement on Viktor Gyokeres return as 'deadline' set for transfer

Sporting Clube de Portugal have released a statement on Viktor Gyokeres' return amid growing uncertainties over his future.

During the 24/25 campaign, Swedish international Gyokeres managed 54 goals and 13 assists in 52 appearances across all competitions.

As a result, the 27-year-old has become one of the most highly sought-after players in world football.

So far this summer, Gyokeres has been linked with the likes of Arsenal, Manchester United, Chelsea and Liverpool.

Earlier in the week, a bombshell on Gyokeres' future was dropped, claiming he is close to reaching an agreement to leave Sporting.

L'Equipe have revealed that the Sweden international is in talks with Arsenal, with sporting director Andrea Berta said to be leading discussions.

The Gunners, however, are still yet to reach an agreement with Sporting.

Viktor Gyokeres has been linked with a move to Arsenal. Image: Getty

Recently, as reported by The Standard, Sporting president Frederico Varandas rejected claims that Gyokeres had an agreement allowing him to leave for €60m (£51m) plus €10m (£8.6m).

He said: "They should know me better by now. Threats, blackmail and insults do not work with me. And I can guarantee one thing: Viktor will not leave for €60m plus €10m. I never promised this.

"With this game that the agent is playing, the situation is only getting worse. To date, Sporting have not had an offer for Viktor Gyokeres. Not today or last summer."

According to the Daily Mail, Gunners boss Mikel Arteta wants a new striker signed before the team fly out to Singapore for their pre-season tour on July 19.

As the new season begins next month, players are starting to return to their clubs for pre-season training.

Earlier in the week, a selection of Sporting players were seen reporting for training, but Gyokeres was nowhere to be seen.

Despite claims of an apparent strike, it has been confirmed that Gyokeres is among other players who have been granted extra time off due to international commitments.

A Sporting statement stated: “Those who have been away with their respective national teams will report to training at a later date."

It has been suggested that Gyokeres will return to training early next week, with Sporting taking on Celtic in their first pre-season match on July 16.