Viktor Gyokeres To Face Disciplinary Action From Sporting CP After Skipping Training Session

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Viktor Gyokeres is facing disciplinary measures from Sporting CP after missing a training session. The striker is keen on transferring to Arsenal. Discussions between Arsenal and Gyokeres have been ongoing, with the player having netted 68 goals in the Primeira Liga since joining from Coventry City in 2023. His contract includes a €100 million release clause, but Sporting's president, Frederico Varandas, hinted at a possible lower transfer fee.

Gyokeres was expected to attend pre-season training with Sporting on Saturday but was absent. Instead, he gave an interview to L'Equipe expressing his wish to move to England and asserting his status as one of the world's top strikers. Sporting plans to take action against him for this absence. Varandas emphasized that Gyokeres will remain if Arsenal does not meet their valuation.

"We're calm," Varandas stated, indicating that the situation could be resolved with the transfer window's closure, a significant fine, and an apology from Gyokeres. He added that if Arsenal does not pay what they consider fair market value for Viktor, they are comfortable keeping him for three more years.

Varandas also criticized those trying to pressure him into facilitating Gyokeres' departure. "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," he said. He stressed that no individual is above the club's interests.

In the past two seasons, Gyokeres has scored more league goals than any other player in Europe's top 10 divisions. His tally of 68 goals surpasses Bayern Munich's Harry Kane, who scored 62 during the same period. These goals came from opportunities valued at 53.6 expected goals (xG), meaning Gyokeres exceeded expectations by 14.4 goals.

Last season alone, Gyokeres scored 39 goals in 33 Primeira Liga matches as Sporting secured their 21st top-flight title despite losing coach Ruben Amorim to Manchester United last November.

Arsenal's Recent Transfers

Arsenal has already secured several signings this season. They have brought in Kepa Arrizabalaga, Martin Zubimendi, and Christian Norgaard. Additionally, Noni Madueke is reportedly set to join from Chelsea for €55 million.

The situation surrounding Gyokeres remains uncertain as both clubs navigate negotiations and potential outcomes before the transfer window closes.