Arsenal's transfer plans for Viktor Gyokeres have hit a snag as the Swedish striker faces disciplinary action from his current club, Sporting Lisbon.

According to Sporting president Frederico Varandas, Gyokeres failed to report for pre-season training, leading to internal disciplinary measures. Varandas also indicated that the situation has made any potential transfer "more complicated."

Recent Developments

• Arsenal's Interest: BBC Sport reported that Arsenal's sporting director, Andrea Berta, held face-to-face talks with Gyokeres in Portugal. The Gunners remain hopeful of securing a deal, with their latest proposal totaling around €70 million (£60 million), including add-ons.

• Sporting's Stance: Varandas clarified that there is no 'gentleman's agreement' for Gyokeres to leave for €70 million, but the club is not demanding his full release clause of €100 million (£85 million).

Gyokeres' Performance

Gyokeres has been in stellar form, scoring 54 goals in 52 games last season and helping Sporting secure two league titles. Despite his on-field success, his absence from pre-season training has raised eyebrows.

Varandas' Statement

"No one is above the interests of the club," Varandas told Portuguese news agency Lusa. "We're calm. Everything can be solved with the closure of the market, a hefty fine, and an apology to the group."

He added, "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."

What’s Next?

As the transfer window progresses, the situation remains fluid. Arsenal's persistence and Gyokeres' disciplinary issues could either pave the way for a high-profile transfer or keep the striker in Portugal for the foreseeable future.